As June approaches, the Pittsburgh Penguins are gearing up for the opening of NHL free agency in a month. The Penguins have several needs across their lineup, but acquiring a proven goal-scoring winger should be a top priority.
Jake DeBrusk has been linked to the Penguins for a while. Recent trade deadline rumors suggested a potential three-team deal involving DeBrusk and Jake Guentzel.
DeBrusk is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1st, although he has expressed interest in re-signing with the Boston Bruins. Despite the Bruins having over $20 million in salary cap space, no deal has been finalized. Besides goaltender Jeremy Swayman, DeBrusk is the Bruins’ most significant unsigned player.
The 27-year-old winger saw a slight dip in his production in the 2023-24 season, tallying 19 goals and 40 points in 80 games. However, he excelled in the playoffs with five goals and 11 points in 13 games. DeBrusk, a versatile player, contributed on both special teams and is recognized as a solid 200-foot player.
Should the Penguins acquire him, DeBrusk would likely compete with Michael Bunting and Drew O’Connor for a spot on the left wing. His ability to score from high-danger areas, with 12 of his 19 goals coming from net-front positions, would complement Penguins’ top-liners Sidney Crosby and Bryan Rust.
While the Bruins are keen on retaining DeBrusk, if contract negotiations falter, the Penguins should be ready to reach out to DeBrusk’s camp when free agency opens on July 1st.
