The Bruins need a sparkplug. They need Jake Debrusk

Following a thrilling win over the Dallas Stars, the Boston Bruins looked like the team we’ve seen all year, grinding out wins and getting the two points. But, in a much larger scope, the Bruins have been slipping a little lately. They need a spark in the lineup, They need Jake Debrusk.

Since improving to 38-5-4 with a win over the Montreal Canadiens, the Bruins have been in a bit of a downturn. They’re still the best team in the league, but since that Montreal win, they’ve lost four of their last six games, losing to the Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Carolina Hurricanes, and Washington Capitals, while beating the Toronto Maple Leafs and Dallas Stars.

This is where Debrusk factors in. His speed, puck tracking, energy, and presence are needs for the Bruins. On the power play, Debrusk possesses the goal line spot, where he scored two goals in the winter classic. If you haven’t noticed, the Bruins haven’t scored a power play goal in six games and are 0 fer their last 20 chances. Debrusk has five power play goals and six power play assists this season.

He’s a key factor on the power play, and he’s a key factor at even strength. Through 36 games prior to getting injured, he was on pace for a career season, with 16 goals and 14 assists while averaging 17:08 of ice time per game.

Debrusk’s CF% this season is 57.24, which is a career high. The Bruins as a team? They have a 51.40 CF% in all situations. Debrusk’s FF% this season is 58.24, also a career high. The Bruins? They’re at 52.21% in all situations.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Debrusk is probable for Thursday night’s showdown with the Nashville Predators. The Bruins need him back because what he’s brought to the table this season has been huge, and he’s proven to be a pretty good fit alongside Brad Marchand and Patrice Bergeron on Boston’s top line. Hopefully he can also help the Bruins hoist the Stanley Cup this summer.