With Jake DeBrusk expected to hit the market, the Bruins have some potential targets to replace him.
On Thursday, Boston Bruins GM Don Sweeney essentially confirmed that Jake DeBrusk will hit the free-agent market on July 1. Assuming DeBrusk finds a new home, the Bruins must replace him with another top-six winger. The 2015 first-round pick has been a key part of Boston's top six, and failing to replace him would negatively impact their lineup.
As a result, let's go over three free-agent wingers who the Bruins should target if DeBrusk officially walks.
Jonathan Marchessault
If Jonathan Marchessault hits the market, he should immediately grab the Bruins' attention. The 33-year-old winger is coming off a spectacular campaign with the Vegas Golden Knights, recording 42 goals - a new career high - and 69 points in 82 games. With the Bruins looking for more scoring, Marchessault would be a big-time pickup for them.
Another notable reason the Bruins, a team with Stanley Cup expectations, could target Marchessault is that he is a proven playoff performer. During Vegas' Stanley Cup championship run in 2023, he recorded 13 goals and 25 points in 23 games. Due to his outstanding play, he won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff's MVP. The Bruins could use a clutch player like this in their top six.
Patrick Kane
The Bruins were one of the clubs connected to Patrick Kane before he signed with the Detroit Red Wings this past season. Given Sweeney's previous interest in the future Hall of Famer, it would not be shocking if he made a push for him again this summer.
Kane showed this season with Detroit that he can still be an incredibly impactful player. In 50 games with the Original Six club, he had 20 goals and 47 points. With numbers like these, Kane would be an excellent addition to the Bruins' roster and an acceptable replacement for DeBrusk.
Tyler Bertuzzi
Tyler Bertuzzi is a prime potential target for the Bruins this summer. He worked wonderfully for the club as a rental during the 2022-23 season, posting 16 points in 21 regular-season games and 10 points in seven postseason games. He was an immediate fit in Jim Montgomery's system, and the Bruins could circle back on him if he hits the market because of it.
While Bertuzzi has expressed interest in re-signing with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Chris Johnston also recently reported that the gritty winger will likely test the market. If the Leafs don't get a new deal with him done by July 1, the Bruins should try to spark a reunion with him.
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