Bruins Fans Bash Jake DeBrusk After $38.5 Million Canucks Forward Confesses to Requesting Trades Out of Boston
Boston Bruins fans are up in arms after former player Jake DeBrusk revealed that he had requested trades out of the team on multiple occasions during his tenure. DeBrusk, who recently signed a seven-year, $38.5 million contract with the Vancouver Canucks, opened up about his reasons for wanting to leave Boston during a conversation on “The Cam & Strick Podcast.”
DeBrusk’s admission did not sit well with the passionate Bruins fanbase, who were quick to express their displeasure on social media. Many labeled him as a “spoiled brat” for seeking an exit from a team that drafted him 14th overall in the 2015 NHL Draft and where he had significant playing time.
The 27-year-old forward explained that his decision to request trades stemmed from concerns about his role and the team’s direction. “Given how the team was evolving and my uncertain position in the lineup, combined with being benched during the playoffs, I thought a fresh start was needed for both sides,” DeBrusk said. He felt his career was at stake and believed he could contribute more than what was happening in Boston.
Despite the controversy, DeBrusk remained with the Bruins until the end of his contract, even signing a two-year extension on the 2022 NHL Trade Deadline day. Under new head coach Jim Montgomery, DeBrusk had his best season in 2022-23, scoring 27 goals and 50 points in 64 games. However, the trade requests had already damaged his relationship with fans, who saw his actions as a betrayal.
The backlash from fans was swift and intense. Many criticized DeBrusk for his perceived lack of loyalty and commitment to the team. “He was given every opportunity to succeed here, and this is how he repays the organization?” one fan tweeted. Another added, “Good riddance. We don’t need players who aren’t fully committed to the Bruins.”
DeBrusk’s move to the Canucks marks a new chapter in his career, one that he is eagerly anticipating. “I felt good about the Canucks and our discussions were promising. Once the deal was confirmed, I was overwhelmed with excitement. I can’t wait to get to Vancouver and start this new chapter. I feel very lucky and honored to be part of the team,” DeBrusk told NHL.com.
While Bruins fans may be bitter about his departure, DeBrusk is looking forward to the future with the Canucks. Vancouver, fresh off a strong playoff run, hopes that DeBrusk’s talent and experience will help propel them further in the upcoming season.
DeBrusk will face his former team at TD Garden with the Canucks on November 26, a game that is sure to be charged with emotion and anticipation from both sides. Whether he can win over the Vancouver fanbase and prove his critics wrong remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Jake DeBrusk is ready for a fresh start.
