Jake DeBrusk’s career with the Boston Bruins has done a 180-degree turn over the last two seasons. DeBrusk requested a trade during the 2021-22 season and cited difficulty with then-head coach Bruce Cassidy’s coaching style as a cause. In 2020, DeBrusk struggled with “bubble” play during the height of COVID-19 and had battles with his mental health. The Edmonton native was riding a roller coaster of emotions, and his play suffered as a result. But then, out of necessity, DeBrusk was moved to the top line on his off-wing with Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand during the 2021-22 season, and his production improved. The former first-round pick scored 25 goals and showed a renewed desire to compete every night. Things were looking up for DeBrusk heading into the off-season.
The Bruins surprised the hockey world with the termination of Cassidy, and that seemed to change DeBrusk’s willingness to remain a Bruin. The winger rescinded his trade request, and his best season as a professional followed. DeBrusk totaled 50 points during the Bruins’ historic 65-win season and now heads into his contract year with three 25-plus goal seasons under his belt and the anticipation of a huge payday coming after the 2023-24 season. As the 6-foot, 200-pound forward turns 27 years old in October, DeBrusk is preparing for another stellar season that will catapult him to his biggest contract yet.
The recent signing of Brandon Hagel by the Tampa Bay Lightning could give DeBrusk an indication of what his market value will be next offseason. Hagel signed an eight-year, $52 million deal as a 25-year-old wing with the Lightning on August 22. The left-shot forward scored 30 goals with 34 assists last season, by far his best as a pro. DeBrusk is two years older but has a more complete resume. Hagel’s $6.5 million salary cap hit is probably in line with what DeBrusk could seek. Will DeBrusk get eight years? Probably not. But six years at $6.5 to $7 million per season is very likely.
The Bruins will be in a position to sign the former 14th overall draft pick either during this season or in the off-season. Ideally, Boston does not want to get into a bidding war for DeBrusk but wants to see if the converted right wing can produce without Bergeron as his center. A good start could surely mean an extension for DeBrusk, as Boston will need to keep their homegrown forward for years to come.
Jake DeBrusk has something he hasn’t had until now, leverage. Recently, DeBrusk expressed a desire to remain in Boston, a stark contrast from just two years ago. Look for both sides to come to an agreement to complete quite a reclamation project.
