What the Bruins should do with Jake DeBrusk
Since joining the NHL in the 2017-18 season, Jake DeBrusk's career has been marked by ups and downs.
However, last season showcased a turning point as he delivered the best performance of his career, solidifying his importance to the Bruins' offense. His absence due to a foot injury during the Winter Classic underscored his impact on the team.
As DeBrusk enters a contract year and faces unrestricted free agency next summer, the Bruins find themselves in a delicate position. With restricted free agents Jeremy Swayman and Trent Frederic still unsigned, an extension for DeBrusk is unlikely this offseason, fueling trade speculation.
Retaining DeBrusk should be a priority for the Bruins. At 26, he is coming off a career-best season and has the potential for even greater growth. In just 64 games, he tallied 27 goals and 50 points, setting new career highs despite missing games due to injury. A healthy DeBrusk over a full season could easily reach the 30-goal mark.
Over the last season and a half, DeBrusk has transformed into the top-six winger the Bruins needed.
He brought much-needed consistency to the team's offense, which had relied heavily on Bergeron, Marchand, and Pastrnak. With Bergeron's departure and players like Pastrnak and Zacha locked in long term, the Bruins should be cautious about making any drastic changes. Building on the fly while handling their cap situation requires a measured approach, and DeBrusk should be a part of their future plans.
Considering the Bruins' cap constraints, it would be prudent to delay DeBrusk's extension until after the season begins. This approach benefits both sides, allowing him to continue proving his value and potentially earn a larger contract, while also giving the team a chance to assess his consistent performance.
A well-thought-out decision on DeBrusk's extension is crucial as the Bruins navigate their future without compromising their competitive edge.
Source: thehockeywriters
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