Jake DeBrusk
Jake DeBrusk is another player who needs to step up in Krejci’s absence.
DeBrusk played on a line with Krejci for all but one game. This game, of course, was the opening game that Krejci missed.
Even with Krejci down the middle, DeBrusk has yet to score a goal this year. He also only has one assist.
The Bruins had high expectations for DeBrusk this year, so the slow start is concerning. He had 27 goals last season in only his second year in the NHL. Most expected him to flirt with 30 goals this year.
Boston desperately needs secondary scoring from someone like DeBrusk. With Krejci out, this need only becomes bigger.
DeBrusk will start the game against Tampa with Charlie Coyle as his center. DeBrusk and Coyle are both physical players who play a straight-ahead game. Cassidy hopes that DeBrusk and Coyle can click and finally score some goals.
No matter how many games Krejci misses, Coyle, Heinen, and DeBrusk need to step up this season for the Bruins. It’s not enough for them to play well; they need to score goals. If not, the Bruins will fail as a one-line team.