Jake DeBrusk has agreed to a long-term contract with the Vancouver Canucks, ending his stint with the Boston Bruins. He had the chance to reflect on his tumultuous Boston career as he transitioned to a new company.
Over seven seasons, DeBrusk played 465 games with the Bruins. In his stint in Boston, the winger recorded 138 goals and 128 assists. In 2022–2023 he had his greatest season with 27 goals and 23 assists.
These numbers are solid overall, and it appears that supporters would not have any problems at all with the winger. That’s untrue, as supporters of the Bruins will attest.
DeBrusk found it difficult to remain reliable. He might put up five goals in five games and then not hit the net for a month.
When comparing his regular season performance to his postseason performance, his consistency was also a problem. Even though DeBrusk was the team’s most exciting player throughout the regular season, he would become less noticeable during the playoffs.
Bruins supporters were also incensed with DeBrusk because of his playing style. The winger wasn’t your usual “big, bad Bruin” who would battle in the unclean areas and level opponents. DeBrusk appeared to be reluctant to participate in the physical aspects of the game, especially in the early stages of his career. He was able to become more involved in the gritty areas as a player, but he found it difficult to shake the stigma of being perceived as “soft.”
It is difficult to see his stint in Boston as anything less than a success as a player. Based on his statistical data, he appears to be a promising offensive player who will undoubtedly succeed in Vancouver.
Fans won’t be very concerned about DeBrusk’s departure, however they will be a little sad about his time wearing a Bruins uniform due to the team’s lack of consistency and Stanley Cup success.