Why Jake DeBrusk is not a solution for the Edmonton Oilers

For nearly half a decade, trade speculation has linked the Edmonton Oilers to Jake DeBrusk. After he signed long-term with the Canucks in 2024, however, that discussion died down.

A recent article on CanucksArmy reignited the conversation about Edmonton as a potential landing spot, as Vancouver seeks to move some of its veteran players for futures.

Speculation regarding Edmonton’s interest in DeBrusk dates back to 2021-22, when he requested a trade out of Boston. The request leaked to the public, and insiders were quick to link the Edmonton native with his hometown team. His father, Louie DeBrusk, played six seasons with the Oilers during the 1990s and currently serves as the colour commentator for their Sportsnet broadcasts.

The fit made sense at the time. Edmonton needed secondary scoring, and DeBrusk needed a fresh start.

Bruins GM Don Sweeney tried to facilitate a trade, but nothing ever materialized. After a strong second half of the season and an offseason coaching change, DeBrusk rescinded his trade request. He continued to play for Boston until he became an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2024.

Rumours resurfaced between DeBrusk and the Oilers that summer, but once again, it never came to fruition. Instead, he signed a massive seven-year deal with Vancouver worth an AAV of $5.5 million.

Two years into his contract, the Canucks have imploded. They won just 25 games this season, finishing dead last in the NHL. With a teardown likely on the horizon, DeBrusk commented on his lack of interest in going through a rebuild earlier this season. While he later walked back those comments, he remains a logical trade chip for........

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