**Maple Leafs Show ‘Mutual Interest’ in Bruins’ $8 Million Forward: Report**
The Toronto Maple Leafs and pending free agent forward Jake DeBrusk reportedly have mutual interest in a potential signing.
DeBrusk, who will become an unrestricted free agent after his two-year $8 million contract with the Boston Bruins expires, is attracting attention from the Leafs. Former NHL player and Toronto Star columnist Nick Kypreos reported on June 19 that Toronto is keen on signing DeBrusk.
“There’s word they may have interest in pending Bruins free agent Jake DeBrusk, who’s been a Leafs playoff killer over the years,” Kypreos wrote.
Following Kypreos’ report, Nick Alberga of The Nation Network confirmed the mutual interest, stating that DeBrusk is also interested in joining the Maple Leafs.
“Furthermore, I heard over the weekend that there’s actually mutual interest between the Leafs & Jake DeBrusk,” Alberga wrote.
According to DailyFaceoff.com, DeBrusk is projected to secure a five-year deal worth $6 million annually.
Last season, DeBrusk tallied 19 goals and 21 assists for 40 points in 80 games with the Bruins. Known for his strong performances against Toronto, he recorded 3 goals and 2 assists in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs against the Maple Leafs. Throughout his career, DeBrusk has accumulated 6 goals and 5 assists in 17 games against Toronto.
**DeBrusk ‘Looking Forward’ to Finalizing a Deal**
As DeBrusk approaches free agency on July 1, he is focused on securing a new contract.
“I understand that business is business,” DeBrusk said, via NHL.com. “I’ve seen a lot of deals get done with guys, so I understand their side and how they operate. I thought things would work out earlier, but it’s been stressful. I’m just looking forward to getting away, to be honest.”
Drafted 14th overall by Boston in 2015, DeBrusk made his NHL debut in the 2017-18 season and has been a full-time player since. Despite publicly requesting a trade from the Bruins on November 29, 2021, no deal materialized, and DeBrusk rescinded his request in July 2022.
**Maple Leafs Front Office Open to Changes**
After being eliminated in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, the Maple Leafs’ front office is considering various changes this summer. Trade rumors have circulated involving Mitch Marner and John Tavares, though both would need to waive their no-movement clauses.
Entering the offseason with just over $18 million in cap space, Toronto has several key free agents, including Tyler Bertuzzi, Max Domi, Joel Edmundson, and RFAs Timothy Liljegren and Nicholas Robertson. Free agency begins on July 1.
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