Jake DeBrusk is embarking on a fresh chapter in his NHL journey following his recent signing with the Vancouver Canucks, marking the end of his seven-year tenure with the Boston Bruins, who drafted him in the first round in 2015.
Expressing his gratitude and bidding farewell, DeBrusk took to Instagram on Tuesday to thank the Bruins organization and their devoted fanbase. Accompanying a photo from the 2023 Winter Classic at Fenway Park, he conveyed heartfelt appreciation, stating, “Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! Thank you to all of the people that I got to meet and had the pleasure of getting to know throughout my last 7 years in the black and gold. There will always be a place in my heart for Boston and that’s because of my teammates that I went to battle with and the fans who were with me from the start! In saying all that I am extremely excited to start this new chapter in my career and to be in Vancouver and to put on that Canucks jersey! #itsshowtime #cheers.”
DeBrusk’s departure from Boston follows a season marked by ups and downs, culminating in an impressive playoff performance until the Bruins were ousted by the Florida Panthers. Reflecting on the negotiation process, DeBrusk acknowledged surprise that an agreement couldn’t be reached during the season.
General manager Don Sweeney conveyed the team’s interest in retaining DeBrusk while acknowledging the complexities of negotiations as a collaborative effort.
DeBrusk’s tenure with the Bruins was not without challenges. In 2021, he had requested a trade which did not materialize, leading to a subsequent two-year contract extension. Following the Bruins’ playoff exit in June 2022, the team parted ways with coach Bruce Cassidy, prompting DeBrusk to withdraw his trade request ahead of the new season. Although he did not confirm the connection between Cassidy’s departure and his decision to remain in Boston, DeBrusk underscored that conversations with teammates affirmed his choice to stay.
Despite these challenges, DeBrusk had standout moments in Boston, notably during the Winter Classic where his two-goal performance, including the game-winner against the Pittsburgh Penguins, highlighted his capabilities on the ice.
Looking ahead, DeBrusk eagerly anticipates his fresh start in Vancouver, embracing the opportunity to contribute to the Canucks’ lineup and don their jersey with enthusiasm and determination. His move signifies a new beginning, offering him a chance to make a significant impact in a new hockey environment.
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