The Boston Bruins clearly miss this former player in their lineup.
The Boston Bruins have had a mixed start to the 2024-25 season. As of this writing, they have a 3-2-1 record. Overall, they have had some excellent moments, but there are also obvious warning flags early on.
Perhaps the Bruins’ most noticeable issue early in the season has been their second line. It has struggled to produce, and as a result, it has undergone several adjustments. With this, it is clear that the Bruins are already missing Jake DeBrusk this young season.
DeBrusk, 28, was a key member of the Bruins’ top six for several seasons. In 80 games this season, he had 19 goals and 40 points for the Original Six. This came after he scored 27 goals and 50 points in 64 games with the Bruins in 2022-23.
DeBrusk had some consistency issues last season, but he finished with strong stats. He was also the Bruins’ leading skater in the playoffs, with five goals and eleven points in 13 games. With the Bruins’ second line struggling offensively, it’s evident that they’re missing DeBrusk’s contributions right now.
DeBrusk is also off to a strong start this season with the Vancouver Canucks, with four assists and a plus-1 rating in five games.
Finally, it’s logical that the Bruins used their cap room to sign high-profile free agents such as Elias Lindholm and Nikita Zadorov. They needed to strengthen both the middle and the left side of their defense. However, it made it difficult to find a suitable top-six winger in free agency to replace DeBrusk. As a result, the Bruins will likely look to add another winger before the trade deadline.
