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NHL Rumors: Maple Leafs among top Jake DeBrusk contenders in 2024 offseason
The Toronto Maple Leafs will be looking to revamp their roster this offseason with free agent Jake DeBrusk surfacing as an interesting option.
DeBrusk is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. According to Capfriendly, DeBrusk is coming off a two-year, $8 million deal with the Boston Bruins. His $4 million cap hit is lower than other Maple Leafs’ free agents like Max Domi and Tyler Bertuzzi.
However, there’s some uncertainty regarding DeBrusk’s willingness to leave Boston. Per The Fourth Period, DeBrusk told the media on Sunday:
“I still have hopes (of signing a new deal with Boston).”
With the Bruins dealing with a number of UFAs, including defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk and veteran forwards Jan van Riemsdyk and Pat Maroon, the Bruins will have several holes to fill.
Plus, Boston will need to work out a new contract for goalie Jeremy Swayman.
In light of potentially tough roster decisions, the Bruins may opt to let DeBrusk hit the open market. As such, the Toronto Maple Leafs could emerge as a suitable landing spot for the 27-year-old DeBrusk.
At this point in his career, DeBrusk can offer plenty of value as a middle-six forward. He chipped in 19 goals and 21 assists in 80 games this season. That sort of production could provide the Maple Leafs with the depth scoring they need during the regular season and playoffs.
In addition to the Leafs, The Fourth Period reports that the Los Angeles Kings and Edmonton Oilers could be interested in adding DeBrusk.
Could DeBrusk replace Bertuzzi for the Maple Leafs?
Last offseason, the Maple Leafs signed former Boston Bruin Tyler Bertuzzi to a one-year, $5 million deal. The aim was to bring in the gritty Bertuzzi, who could contribute to the scoresheet while adding toughness.
In 80 games this year, Bertuzzi netted 21 goals and 22 assists for 43 points. He started the season slowly but picked up the pace later in the year.
Bertuzzi predominantly played on the second line with John Tavares, though he jumped to the top line with Max Domi and Auston Matthews near the end of the season.
But at $5 million per season, would the Leafs bring back Bertuzzi?
The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta reported that the Leafs informed Bertuzzi they wanted to bring him back. If that’s the case, the two sides will need to work out a favorable deal.
However, if the Leafs cannot re-sign Bertuzzi, DeBrusk could become a feasible option. As reporter Peter Baracchini noted on The Hockey Writers, the Leafs could give DeBrusk a similar deal to Bertuzzi’s, a “prove it” deal, in hopes of DeBrusk elevating his game.
Baracchini also noted the issues between DeBrusk and the Bruins. If both sides cannot work out a contract extension, DeBrusk may be compelled to sign with one of Boston’s division rivals.
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