Bruins GM Provides Significant Jake DeBrusk Update
Don Sweeney made it pretty clear that Jake DeBrusk will hit the market on July 1.
Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports - Bruins GM Provides Significant Jake DeBrusk UpdateBoston Bruins GM Don Sweeney spoke with the media during his pre-draft availability. During it, he provided some significant updates regarding the Bruins' offseason plans. Yet, perhaps his most notable update was regarding top Bruins pending UFA Jake DeBrusk.
Sweeney made it clear that he believes DeBrusk will hit the free-agent market on July 1. Here's what the B's GM said on the matter:
"I suspect that Jake will head to UFA and test the market. Remain consistent that we have been in negotiations with Jake — haven't had any productive talks in quite some time. At the end of the day, that's his prerogative to see what July 1 brings for him."
Given how important of a player DeBrusk has been for the Bruins, this is far from ideal news. The 2015 first-round pick has been a key part of the Bruins' top six for multiple seasons. If he finds a new home, which seems quite likely, the Bruins will need to find somebody to replace him in free agency or through the trade market.
DeBrusk struggled with consistency this season but still finished with decent offensive totals. In 80 regular-season games, he posted 19 goals, 40 points, and a plus-4 rating. While it was a clear drop-off from his 27 goals and 50 points in 64 games, he was still one of Boston's most crucial point-producers in 2023-24.
Yet, DeBrusk notably picked up his play in the postseason and regained his 2022-23 form. In 13 playoff games, he led the Bruins in goals (5) and points (11).
With DeBrusk expected to hit the market, he should have many suitors. At just 27 years old, he has plenty of time left in his prime as a top-six scoring winger. It's a shame he and the Bruins couldn't get a deal done.
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