3 Potential Free-Agent Destinations for Jake DeBrusk

The Boston Bruins need to make a decision on pending unrestricted free agent Jake DeBrusk. The 27-year-old winger is just weeks away from hitting the open market and if he does, will have a long list of interested teams contacting his agent.

DeBrusk finished last season with 19 goals and 40 points in 80 games and another 11 points in 13 Stanley Cup Playoff games. He's had an up-and-down seven-year career so far with the Bruins which included a run in with ex-head coach Bruce Cassidy. At this point, all signs are pointing to DeBrusk hitting the free-agent market July 1 to see how much of a pay day he can cash in on.

Here's three potential destinations for the former first-round pick:

Nashville Predators

The Preds are loaded with cap space. GM Barry Trotz has over $26 million to work with this summer and has put his priority into finding top-six forwards who can help balance out his offense. DeBrusk fits the bill in Nashville as someone who doesn't shy away from contact and can play in multiple positions among their lineup. 

Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks aren't expected to re-sign Elias Lindholm and after almost trading Lindholm in a three-way deal that involved DeBrusk in-season, they could be interested in signing the native of Edmonton, AB. Patrik Allvin, like Trotz has a boat load of cap space to work with and the Canucks seem content to also try and move on from under-performing winger Ilya Mikheyev. If DeBrusk is added, Mikheyev is likely headed for a buy out or trade that would require a sweetener. 

Detroit Red Wings

The Wings are likely losing David Perron and could see DeBrusk as a capable replacement among their top-six. Steve Yzerman has over $29 million to work with this summer and once he gets a handle on his own pending free agents which also includes Patrick Kane's future, DeBrusk could be among their targets. The Red Wings want proven NHL talent and aren't interested in rebuilding for the future any longer. DeBrusk would be a great addition to compliment their core.

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