Canucks a prime free agency destination: Jake Debrusk reveals why he signed in Vancouver

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Felip Gosselin
September 10, 2024 (8:41 PM)

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New Vancouver Canucks forward Jake DeBrusk is known for setting goals-and scoring them.

Unlike many NHL players who set season-long targets, the 27-year-old winger prefers to set personal goals on a month-to-month basis. During the team's Jake Milford golf tournament on Monday, DeBrusk didn't disclose what his goals are for his first month with his new team, but he's confident that throughout the season, he can surpass his career-high of 27 goals, a mark he hit in both the 2018-19 and 2022-23 seasons.

DeBrusk's goal-scoring is even more impressive because both seasons were cut short by injury-he scored 27 goals in just 68 games in 2018-19 and only 64 games in 2022-23. Had he played full seasons, DeBrusk was on pace to net nearly 35 goals both times, a mark he aims to exceed with the Canucks this year.

«There are always goals and you try to do better than the previous year,» DeBrusk explained after scoring 19 times in 80 games in Boston last season. «I kind of want to get back to that 25 to 30 goal range. I think I could possibly get more if things go really well. At the same time, it's a new experience for me. I've been brought in to score goals. So I'm going to try to do the job the best I can. I usually do my goals on a month to month basis, so I guess I'll let you know after month one.»

Debrusk to hit career highs in his first season in Vancouver?

When asked about a potential spot on the Canucks' top power-play unit alongside Elias Pettersson, Quinn Hughes, J.T. Miller, and Brock Boeser, Jake DeBrusk responded with a grin:

"Sounds like a treat." He added, "I think any player would say yes to that. Whether it's the power play, the bumper position, or wherever I'm needed, I'll do whatever I can to make the most of the opportunity. It's exciting. There's a lot of skill there; from the outside looking in, it's a dangerous unit. I feel lucky to play with them. I was taught to be versatile in Boston, so I'll slot in wherever helps the team."

DeBrusk signed a seven-year, $5.5 million-per-season free-agent deal on July 1st, and has been skating with his new teammates ahead of the Canucks' main training camp in Penticton.

The winger reveals why he chose the Canucks

As the Vancouver Canucks prepare to open their regular season at home against Calgary, Jake DeBrusk is still settling into his new surroundings. Reflecting on his decision to sign with the team, DeBrusk revealed why Vancouver was the right choice for him.

"I really like where this team is headed," he shared. "They made some big strides last year, and when I looked at the roster and the way it's shaping up for the next couple of years, it really excited me. I thought I'd fit in well. To join a group like that, I just couldn't say no. I couldn't pass up this opportunity,"

The Canucks are certainly glad he didn't. For DeBrusk, the Canucks' growth and potential were crucial factors in his decision. And as the winger gets ready for the upcoming season, it's clear both he and the team are thrilled about what's ahead. The Canucks are certainly glad he didn't.

Source: Canucks Amry
JPat: Newcomer Jake DeBrusk believes career-high for goals a possiblity in first year with Canucks