Last Season the Bruins lost love for Jake Debrusk as the right-winger had an extremely down year that saw his offensive production plummet as he recorded five goals and 14 points through 41 games. It seemed Debrusk had played himself right out of Boston as this season opened, and Debrusk requested a trade to take his talents elsewhere and get a fresh start. As the trade deadline approached, it seemed it was a done deal that Debrusk would be on the move as he signed a two-year $4 million AAV extension that looked to be a trade sweetener and give his new team some term security. As the trade deadline came and went, Debrusk remained a Bruin and has remained a bright spot on the top line as his offensive production has bounced back this year, and he looks like the 27-goal scorer we saw in 2018. As the season continues, Debrusk also continues to produce as he has been having a productive and clutch season in Boston as he has now worked his way back into the good graces of Boston Fans and Head Coach Bruce Cassidy.
Debrusk Stays Clutch for Bruins
The one key takeaway from Debrusk this season has been his attitude and heart, as no matter what has gone on in the media, Debrusk has still shown up and been committed to every game. The hustle and grind that Debrusk displays each game have been a critical reason for Boston and his success as he drives the energy and tempo that allows for his goals and others. Debrusk’s no-quit mentality on the ice, paired with his natural abilities, has allowed him to bounce back, as he now has 21 goals and 34 points on the season through 65 games. His 21 goals rank third on the team, only trailing David Pastrnak (38) and fellow linemate Brad Marchand (31). On top of finding his goal-scoring, Debrusk has discovered his ability to be clutch when the Bruins need him the most, as he leads the team in overtime goals now, thanks to his beauty of a goal against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Monday night. With that game’s winning goal, it now gives Debrusk seven game-winners on the season, which only trails offensive superstar and elite goal scorer David Pastrnak who has nine game-winning goals.
Debrusk is Important to the Now and the Future
As far as where Jake Debrusk will be next season, only time will tell whether Debrusk changes his mind about wanting to leave. With all the injuries, the Bruins have faced over the last two games, with the losses of Trent Frederic and David Pastrnak on the offensive side of the puck and Hampus Lindholm on the defense, the Bruins will be counting on Debrusk to continue his scoring ways. For the bruins to be successful for the rest of the season and into the playoffs, Debrusk will need to continue to be a key contributor. His scoring ability is a legitimate threat that can push the Bruins over the top when he is at the top of his game. One thing is for sure Debrusk has maintained a level of professionalism that has gained the respect of veterans like Captain Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand, allowing Debrusk to remain in Boston long term and on a positive note.
