Despite requesting a trade back in late November, there didn't seem to be much of a market for Jake DeBrusk. However, it appears the New York Rangers could be looking at the Boston Bruins winger.
Despite requesting a trade back in late November, there didn't seem to be much of a market for Jake DeBrusk. However, it appears the New York Rangers could be looking at the 25-year-old Boston Bruins left winger.
On Saturday, Sportsnet's Jeff Marek reported the Rangers have inquired about DeBrusk. He considers the Rangers among the more interesting clubs to watch at the March 21 trade deadline and believes they're looking to add one more player to their forward lines.
Rangers general manager Chris Drury is in a good position in this season's trade market. Cap Friendly indicates his club carries a projected $35.7 million in trade deadline cap space. With depth in promising young roster players and prospects to draw upon for trade bait, Drury could make one or two substantial additions to boost his club's chances for a run at the Stanley Cup this spring.
DeBrusk wouldn't be a rental acquisition for the Rangers. A restricted free agent this summer with arbitration rights carrying a $3.675-million AAV for this season, he could be a reasonably affordable lineup addition beyond this season.
Finding a suitable spot for a natural left winger like DeBrusk on the Rangers could be tricky. They're set at left wing on their top-six with Chris Kreider and Artemi Panarin. Not a particularly physical forward with just 15 hits in 34 games, he probably wouldn't be a good fit on their checking lines.
The Bruins' asking price could also be a sticking point as GM Don Sweeney reportedly seeks a comparable forward or defenseman in return. He could be trying to address his club's need for a top-four, left-side defenseman by using DeBrusk as bait.