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Could the Boston Bruins reunite with an old friend who showed up on the latest trade boards?

Jake DeBrusk's name is floating around NHL trade boards; could the Bruins be a potential landing spot?
BySpencer Lazary
Nov 3, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN;  Vancouver Canucks forward Jake DeBrusk (74) skates toward the bench after scoring a goal against the Anaheim Ducks in the third period at Rogers Arena.  Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
Nov 3, 2026; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Jake DeBrusk (74) skates toward the bench after scoring a goal against the Anaheim Ducks in the third period at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The Boston Bruins could have an interesting opportunity if the Vancouver Canucks decide to become sellers. Jake DeBrusk has been popping up on trade bait boards around the NHL, and with the Canucks struggling, there is a chance he could be on the move before the trade deadline.

If Vancouver decides to make some changes, Boston should at least consider bringing DeBrusk back. He spent the first seven seasons of his NHL career with the Bruins, and the fit between the two sides is still pretty easy to see.

Jake DeBrusk makes a lot of sense for the Boston Bruins

DeBrusk knows what it takes to play in Boston, and the Bruins know what they're getting if they bring him back. He's a winger who can score goals, play physically, and give the team another option in their top six. Those are all things Boston could use as they look to improve their forward group.

During his time with the Bruins, DeBrusk became a pretty important part of their lineup. He had some good offensive seasons and was someone the team could rely on in different situations. Bringing him back would give Boston a player who already understands the organization and what is expected of him. There wouldn't be much of an adjustment period, and he could step into the lineup without having to learn a completely new system or environment.

Could the Canucks be ready to move on?

The bigger question is whether Vancouver would actually consider trading him. The Canucks haven't had the season they were hoping for, and if things continue this way, they could find themselves looking at a bigger roster shakeup. DeBrusk's name appearing on trade bait boards is something worth paying attention to, especially if Vancouver starts listening to offers for some of their veteran players. He is a very capable NHL forward, and there should be teams interested in adding him.

However, Boston would have to consider his contract and what Vancouver would want in return. The Bruins shouldn't be giving up too much just because there's a chance to bring back a familiar player. That said, the fit is there, and this is the type of move that could make sense for both sides. If the Canucks are willing to move him, the Bruins should make a call to see what it would take to get a deal done.

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