The Boston Bruins’ centennial season is officially complete. While it didn’t culminate in a Stanley Cup Championship or another duckboat parade for the Bruins faithful, the season wasn’t a complete failure. The organization celebrated 100 years of Bruins hockey, revisiting its rich history. Several era nights at TD Garden allowed fans to relive memories from different periods of Bruins hockey.
The Bruins finished with another 100-point season, securing second place in the Atlantic Division. With the season over, we can now reflect on player performances and assign grades. Today’s report card focuses on winger Jake DeBrusk.
The Player DeBrusk Has Become
Jake DeBrusk has always intrigued Bruins fans, providing unforgettable moments. Notably, he scored the game-winning goal in Game 7 of the 2018 Playoffs first-round series against the Toronto Maple Leafs and another game-winner during the 2023 Winter Classic. DeBrusk has grown into a key part of the team’s success.
In the 2022-23 season, DeBrusk had a career year with 27 goals and 50 points. Following the departures of wingers Taylor Hall and Tyler Bertuzzi, the Bruins needed more offense. Financial constraints meant relying on internal talent like DeBrusk.
This season, it took nine games for DeBrusk to record his first goal. His performance improved but was inconsistent. A strong November was followed by an 11-game goalless streak. He then scored 14 points in 14 games between Dec. 27 and Jan. 22 but had a quiet February with just 2 points in 12 games. In 2023-24, he scored 19 goals and 40 points.
DeBrusk benefited from playing alongside Patrice Bergeron, which improved his overall game. While his offense struggled at times, he excelled in defensive responsibilities and key plays. He ranked 12th in expected goals against (41.33), with a goal differential of 40-31 when on the ice. He also finished fourth in takeaways (36) and scored two shorthanded goals.
DeBrusk has emerged as a solid 200-foot player, capable of playing in multiple situations. Despite not matching his past regular-season success, he was effective and played the second half of the season with a broken hand, affecting his production. He also had a strong postseason.
DeBrusk Had a Strong Postseason
In the playoffs, DeBrusk consistently delivers. In 86 postseason games, he has 27 goals and 47 points. During the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, he was one of the Bruins’ best players.
Brad Marchand led the team with eight points in the first four games, but DeBrusk was close behind. He scored five points in the first three games of round one, including three power-play goals. Although the Maple Leafs contained him later, he found success against the Florida Panthers in Round 2, scoring two goals and six points in six games.
DeBrusk led the Bruins in playoff points and had a strong season overall. He is due for a new contract this summer.
DeBrusk Developed His Overall Game
DeBrusk may not score as prolifically as other top wingers, but he is capable of 20 goals and providing secondary offense. Despite a slow start and occasional scoreless stretches, he improved his all-around game and was effective away from the puck. He also performed well in the playoffs. With his contract negotiations still pending, he could hit the open market this summer.
Grade: B+