Jake DeBrusk enters Manny Malhotra's first season behind the Vancouver Canucks bench with his trade situation still hanging over the roster.
The winger's future became a talking point after a difficult 2025-26 season and comments about playing for a rebuilding club. With training camp approaching, the conversation is picking up again.
One issue is timing. DeBrusk's value took a hit because his five-on-five finishing dropped sharply, leaving Vancouver with reason to consider whether waiting could create a stronger return.
Thomas Drance pointed directly at that problem, writing that DeBrusk was “cosmically snake-bitten as a finisher at five-on-five last season.”
The expectation is that his shooting results should bounce back. DeBrusk has built much of his value around getting inside, working around the crease and finishing chances from dangerous areas.
That gives the Canucks a decision: move him before the season or give Malhotra time to restore his production and trade value.
Three teams stand out for Jake DeBrusk
Edmonton is an obvious connection. DeBrusk was born there, while his father, Louie DeBrusk, played for the Oilers and remains closely tied to the organization through its broadcasts.
The hockey fit matters more. Edmonton could use another winger capable of working the net-front area and giving Leon Draisaitl another finishing option.
Ottawa also makes sense because DeBrusk's strongest work could address a specific need around the crease and on the power play.
David Quadrelli noted that DeBrusk “excels” in that net-front role, exactly the type of presence Ottawa could target when reshaping its attack.
Seattle is the third destination. The Kraken have been looking for more scoring and were reportedly among the clubs interested in DeBrusk before he signed with Vancouver.
DeBrusk still scored 23 goals last season despite his five-on-five struggles. That production keeps his name relevant for clubs searching for top-six or middle-six scoring.
For Vancouver, the bigger question is whether the return available now is worth taking. A stronger start under Malhotra could change the entire market.
Should the Vancouver Canucks trade Jake DeBrusk before the season starts?
Also read on Markerzone.com:
Sportsnet shocker: Elliotte Friedman and Kevin Bieksa officially become free agents
