Canadiens Eye Jake DeBrusk as Trade Target to Boost Offense

The Montreal Canadiens are on the hunt for a skilled winger to enhance their top nine as the season approaches. With limited free agent options still available, the Canadiens may need to turn their attention to the trade market to find the right fit.

One player who has emerged as a compelling trade candidate is Vancouver Canucks forward Jake DeBrusk. As the Canucks embark on a full-scale rebuild, DeBrusk has become a prominent name in trade discussions leading up to the 2026 NHL trade deadline. Given Montreal’s offensive needs, acquiring the former first-round pick from 2015 could be a strategic move.

If DeBrusk joins the Canadiens, he would likely slot in nicely on the second line as a left winger. His presence would not only bolster the team’s scoring potential but also enhance their power play unit, providing a much-needed boost in offensive production.

Last season, DeBrusk led the Canucks with 23 goals and accumulated a total of 42 points over 81 games. This performance followed a career-high season in 2024-25, where he netted 28 goals and recorded 48 points in 82 games. Impressively, he has scored at least 23 goals in four of the last five seasons, showcasing his consistent scoring ability — a quality that would undoubtedly benefit Montreal’s roster.

Moreover, DeBrusk represents a long-term investment for the Canadiens. With a manageable cap hit of $5.5 million extending through the 2030-31 season, he could provide stability and scoring depth for years to come.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.