Boston Bruins sign forward Jake DeBrusk to two-year extension
The Boston Bruins have signed forward Jake DeBrusk to a two-year contract extension in a move that might further help him seek a trade.
His new deal carries a $4-million cap hit.
DeBrusk, 25, has appeared in 57 games this year for the B’s, totalling 15 goals and 26 points. The rugged winger had publicly requested a deal earlier in the season, and now, that might be able to happen.
As noted by Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli, the signing erases what was a $4.41-million qualifying offer and that might ease some teams’ minds about acquiring him.
DeBrusk was listed 33rd on Seravalli’s top 50 trade targets.
DeBrusk has cooled off again, going six straight without a goal after netting eight goals in an eight-game stretch. His December trade request was well publicized, grabbing headlines and generating interest. Four months ago, as many 12 teams were reportedly interested – and he has not changed his mind. The trade request still stands. Bruins GM Don Sweeney went around team to team offering DeBrusk for another (mostly) maligned or imperfect player on that team’s roster but, to this point, hasn’t found a deal that’s worked for the Bruins. Will that change now? Or will the Bruins suddenly need to keep the productive winger?
Zach Laing is the Nation Network’s news director and senior columnist. He can be followed on Twitter at @zjlaing, or reached by email at zach@oilersnation.com.