The Vancouver Canucks have experienced a dramatic fall from grace, shifting from the Pacific Division’s top team to the lowest rank in the National Hockey League in under two years. Following the trade of star defenseman Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild, the team’s management has committed to a full rebuild, prompting speculation about further roster changes that could include forward Jake DeBrusk.
After Kiefer Sherwood was traded to the San Jose Sharks earlier this year, attention has turned to DeBrusk, who signed a seven-year contract in July 2024. Multiple teams have reportedly expressed interest in acquiring the 29-year-old power forward as the Canucks seek to reshape their lineup.
Teams Showing Interest in DeBrusk Amid Active Player Movement
According to a report by The Fourth Period on Monday, the Canucks are fielding inquiries not only about Evander Kane, Conor Garland, Teddy Blueger, and Elias Pettersson, but also about Jake DeBrusk.
“As Canucks management make and take calls on such players as Evander Kane, Conor Garland, Teddy Blueger and Elias Pettersson, they are also open to moving power forward Jake DeBrusk,”
the article stated.
DeBrusk still has five years remaining on his contract, which carries a $5.5 million salary cap hit. However, any trade involving him requires his consent due to a full no-movement clause. Among the teams reportedly interested are the Boston Bruins, Seattle Kraken, and Detroit Red Wings, all of which see potential value despite the contractual complexities.
Potential for a Bruins Reunion and Fit with Other Teams
DeBrusk’s performance this season has raised concerns, as he has scored only 13 goals and tallied 28 points over 56 games. At 29, his prime years may be limited, though a change in environment might help revive his previous form when he scored a career-high 28 goals and added 20 assists during the last season.
The possibility of a reunion with the Boston Bruins is particularly noteworthy. DeBrusk spent the first seven years of his NHL career with Boston, contributing to their run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2019. With the Bruins back in strong playoff contention after a difficult 2024-25, returning to Beantown could be appealing for both parties.
As hockey analyst Irfaan Gaffar noted during a recent episode of DFO Rundown Insider Edition, DeBrusk is willing to entertain a move away from Vancouver.
“It is unclear as to the type of deal the Canucks are looking for in order to move DeBrusk, but GM Patrik Allvin and team president Jim Rutherford are willing to entertain calls,”
reported The Fourth Period.
Rebuilding Canucks Pave Way for Veteran Departures
DeBrusk came to Vancouver with hopes of competing for a Stanley Cup, but with the team currently holding an 18-33-6 record and anchored at the bottom of the NHL standings, the future appears focused on development rather than immediate success. The team is already turning its gaze toward the 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo this June, signaling a clear intention to rebuild.
Several veteran players are expected to be traded ahead of the March 6 trade deadline, and DeBrusk’s departure seems increasingly likely. Both the player and the team may find it best to part ways sooner than either anticipated when he signed with the Canucks less than two years ago, as Vancouver resets its strategy in Western Canada.
