Vancouver Canucks Face Pressure to Make Quick Decision After Jake DeBrusk Development
VANCOUVER, B.C. — The Vancouver Canucks are riding a wave of momentum following their thrilling 2-1 overtime victory against the San Jose Sharks on Monday night—but the clock is ticking. With winger Jake DeBrusk once again proving his value with a clutch game-winning goal, the front office faces mounting pressure to lock in his future before other teams come knocking.
DeBrusk’s heroics on Monday only added to what’s been a statement run of form for the 28-year-old forward. With just 18 seconds left in overtime, DeBrusk buried his 28th goal of the season, lifting the Canucks to their 51st win of the campaign and extending his personal scoring streak to four consecutive games. But more importantly, the timing of this late-season surge has placed the organization in a tight corner—either extend him now, or risk losing a key piece to free agency or trade scenarios once the offseason hits full swing.
A HOT STREAK THAT’S HARD TO IGNORE
Monday’s performance wasn’t a one-off. DeBrusk has been on fire when it matters most, showcasing the kind of elite-level play that teams crave heading into the playoffs. Over the past four games alone, he has tallied five goals and two assists, and has consistently delivered under high-pressure situations.
It’s not just the scoring—it’s how he’s doing it. DeBrusk has been relentless on the forecheck, disciplined in the defensive zone, and explosive in transition. His overtime goal against the Sharks wasn’t a fluke. It came off a well-timed rush, a slick give-and-go with Elias Pettersson, and a finish that beat San Jose goalie Kaapo Kähkönen clean on the blocker side.
That type of poise and clutch performance has elevated DeBrusk from a useful top-six forward to a player now pushing for long-term investment consideration—especially in a market like Vancouver, where playoff expectations are higher than ever.
THE CONTRACT CLOCK IS TICKING
DeBrusk is in the final year of a two-year bridge deal he signed with the Boston Bruins before being traded to Vancouver at the deadline earlier this year. That contract, which carried a cap hit of $4 million annually, was seen as a “prove-it” opportunity for the winger. And now, with nearly 30 goals and one of the hottest sticks in the Western Conference, DeBrusk has absolutely proved it.
That success is now the Canucks’ front-office dilemma.
Multiple insiders have reported that DeBrusk’s camp is open to extension talks, but no formal discussions have been made public. And with his current trajectory, his market value is rapidly increasing. A 30-goal winger entering his prime doesn’t stay unsigned for long in today’s NHL—especially one who has shown he can be productive in both regular season and high-stakes moments.
General Manager Patrik Allvin and President of Hockey Operations Jim Rutherford now find themselves at a crossroads. Do they make the commitment now and secure a player who is clearly thriving in their system? Or do they risk waiting until after the playoffs—when the price tag could go up even further or other teams start making aggressive pitches?
THE ROSTER CRUNCH
Adding to the urgency is the fact that Vancouver will have several other contract situations to manage this summer. Pending RFAs like Nils Höglander and Filip Hronek are also due new deals, while key veterans such as Tyler Myers and Teddy Blueger will enter free agency. Locking up DeBrusk now not only provides stability on the wing, but could help the team budget more accurately for the upcoming months.
What’s more, Vancouver’s success this season—having already clinched a playoff spot and fighting for home-ice advantage—puts them in a win-now posture. Letting a high-impact player like DeBrusk walk, or even allowing the situation to go unresolved into the summer, sends a conflicting message to the fanbase and locker room.
LOCKER ROOM LEADERSHIP
Beyond the numbers, DeBrusk’s transition into the Canucks’ dressing room has been seamless. Teammates speak highly of his energy, work ethic, and willingness to embrace a leadership role despite being a newcomer. His chemistry with Pettersson and J.T. Miller has given head coach Rick Tocchet multiple options when adjusting his lines, and his two-way play has even earned him penalty kill duties in recent weeks.
“Jake’s been unbelievable for us,” Tocchet said post-game on Monday. “He’s come in, worked hard every night, and brought big-time goals when we needed them. He’s got a little edge to him too, which we like. He’s one of those guys who can help you win playoff games.”
INTEREST FROM AROUND THE LEAGUE?
Of course, other NHL teams are watching this situation closely. Sources say at least five teams were interested in DeBrusk prior to the trade deadline, and with his recent performances, the interest has only grown. If the Canucks can’t reach a deal before the July 1 free agency window, DeBrusk would likely become one of the most sought-after forwards on the open market.
That possibility puts added pressure on Vancouver’s front office to act quickly—not only to retain talent but to prevent rivals from poaching a player who has clearly found another gear in his game.
A PLAYOFF X-FACTOR
With the playoffs right around the corner, DeBrusk has the potential to be a difference-maker for Vancouver. He has 47 playoff games under his belt, most of them with Boston, and has registered 18 points in those contests. His experience, combined with his current form, could make him a nightmare matchup for opponents in a seven-game series.
That’s exactly why locking him up now would send a powerful message—to fans, to players, and to future free agents—that the Canucks are serious about building something sustainable.
FINAL REGULAR SEASON TEST
Vancouver will close out its regular season on Wednesday against the Vegas Golden Knights, another top contender in the West. With playoff seeding at stake and DeBrusk riding a four-game goal streak, all eyes will be on whether he can finish the year on a high note.
Should he score again, it would mark his 29th goal of the season—a career high—and likely boost his case for a lucrative extension even further.
WHAT COMES NEXT?
For the Canucks, the decision is clear: sign Jake DeBrusk, and do it soon. The longer the team waits, the greater the risk becomes—not just financially, but culturally. DeBrusk has already become a fan favorite and a clutch performer, and letting him linger in contract limbo could undercut the chemistry and confidence the club has worked so hard to build this season.
As one league insider put it: “The price of winning is going up, and DeBrusk is Exhibit A.”
The Canucks have the momentum. They have the talent. Now it’s time to make a move—and show Jake DeBrusk that Vancouver is where he belongs for the long haul.
