Jake DeBrusk's name has been the subject of trade rumors for months, so it was a little surprising when the Boston Bruins announced a two-year, $8 million contract extension about five hours before Monday's NHL trade deadline.
Despite the new extension, DeBrusk has not rescinded his trade request, per multiple reports.
Five forwards the Bruins should target after Hampus Lindholm deal
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Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman explained how the extension makes it easier for the Bruins to move DeBrusk before the 3 p.m. ET deadline.
The Bruins need to upgrade their scoring depth before the deadline, preferably by acquiring a No. 2 center or a scoring winger. Moving out DeBrusk would worsen Boston's depth even further.
Therefore, any trade for DeBrusk needs to help the Bruins acquire a forward or get assets to go make another deal for a scorer.
Boston Bruins
The Bruins reportedly have shown interest in Winnipeg Jets center/winger Andrew Copp and Anaheim Ducks center/winger Rickard Rakell in recent weeks.
The B's and Ducks made a blockbuster trade on Saturday that sent star defenseman Hampus Lindholm to Boston in exchange for multiple draft picks and players.