Boston Bruins: 3 players who need to step up in 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs

Boston Bruins: 3 players who need to step up in 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs – No.1: Jake DeBrusk

Arguably the most important player for the Boston Bruins this postseason is Jake DeBrusk. While Boston will rely on stars like Marchand, Bergeron, and McAvoy, DeBrusk could change the game for the Bruins.

Now Bruins fans know how streaky DeBrusk can be. He can rattle off five goals in two games and then not score in the following ten games.

In 2021, DeBrusk struggled mightily. He only tallied five goals and nine assists in 41 games this season. His play was so poor that he ended up getting demoted from the second line and even sent to the ninth floor for some games.

At one point it seemed like DeBrusk was destined to be traded at the deadline, but Boston held on to him. In his last five games, the winger has been able to tally three points so he seems to be trending upwards.

DeBrusk will start the postseason on the fourth line and it’s likely where he will stay unless the injury bug bites Boston. On this line, he will need to be smarter on the puck, but will also be the main source of scoring for the line.

At the end of the day, DeBrusk needs to be physical and get involved in the corners. If not he could see himself replaced by a player such as Trent Frederic.

But if DeBrusk is able to maintain a solid level of play throughout the postseason, and maybe even score some goals, the Bruins will be a dangerous team.