HabsWorld.net --
An exciting scoring forward by the name of Jake DeBrusk may be available for Montreal to select at the #26 position at this month’s NHL Entry draft. DeBrusk is another draft eligible player who has bloodlines to the NHL, as his father Louie DeBrusk played for over 400 games in the pros.
Bio
Right Wing
DOB: Oct. 17, 1996 – Edmonton, AB
Height: 5′ 11.75″
Weight: 174 lbs
Rankings
CSB: 19
ISS: 27
TSN-McKenzie: 28
TSN-Button: 21
McKeen’s: 25
Hockey Prospect: 28
Future Considerations: 27
Hockey News: 28
Statistics
Scouting Report
DeBrusk is a feisty forward, one that has a good combination of hockey sense and scoring ability. He has very soft hands, which helped him score his 42 goals and add 39 assists this season in Swift Current, which was good for 6th place in the WHL scoring list. His wrist shot is pro quality, as he can release it very quickly and accurately. He has no fear around the net, and will go to the dirty areas to get the puck or to wait and pounce on a rebound. His energy level is always high, and his panic threshold with the puck is very low. His speed is good but some say his skating style has a small hitch which if corrected would allow him more acceleration to his game. I believe his excellent anticipation and timing helps negate the small skating flaw. With additional works on his skating, this won’t be an issue when he graduates from junior hockey. His intelligence without the puck allows him to play well in hockey systems. His defensive coverage is average and can use some more attention, but with his work ethic it should not be an issue at the pro level.
Timeline
As with most smallish players, DeBrusk could use some development time to bulk up. His father Louie, a tough NHL enforcer tipped the scales at 6’1″ and 225 pounds during his time in the NHL, so Jake stands a good chance to grow a little before he’s ready to arrive in the NHL. Given his offensive skills and the Habs need for more scoring depth on the wing, he stands an excellent chance to play in the big leagues in the next 3 to 4 years.
