Vancouver Canucks forward Jake DeBrusk has publicly stated his dissatisfaction with the direction of the team, signaling he doesn’t envision a future with the club during a potential rebuild.
The 29-year-old winger, currently with 13 goals and 29 points in 59 games this season, is under contract through the 2030-31 season with a $5.5 million cap hit. DeBrusk’s comments came after a recent game, highlighting his concerns about the team’s current trajectory.
“I suppose a rebuild is hard for every player, but at the same point it’s a great opportunity for younger guys,” DeBrusk said, according to the Vancouver Province. “This game humbles everybody and it’s been a little bit more than humbling this year. Obviously, that [rebuild] is not something I would be okay with or accepting.”
“My game doesn’t fit that.”
Trade discussions surrounding DeBrusk are currently stalled, with the Canucks reportedly unwilling to retain any portion of his salary in a deal, according to TSN’s Farhan Lalji. His contract includes a full no-move clause that will transition to a 15-team no-trade list following next season.
DeBrusk was one of many #Canucks veteran forwards who was invisible last night, may not have asked for a trade, but sounds ready for a move:
“Obviously, that (rebuild) is not something I would be okay with or accepting.” https://t.co/X1F36Webxh— Farhan Lalji (@FarhanLaljiTSN) March 3, 2026
Vancouver’s front office has clearly signaled a long-term rebuild is underway, most notably with the earlier trade of captain and star defenseman Quinn Hughes. The team currently sits at the bottom of the NHL standings.
TSN Hockey Insiders Chris Johnston and Darren Dreger have reported that defenseman Filip Hronek is considered the only player currently untouchable in trade discussions as the Canucks reshape their roster.
DeBrusk, currently ranked 31st on the TSN Trade Bait board, is one of five Canucks players listed as potential trade candidates, alongside Brock Boeser and Conor Garland, who recently signed new contracts with the team on July 1.
“I’ve said it since I’ve been here. I don’t care how I do as long as we’re winning and we haven’t been winning,” DeBrusk added. “I’ve learned a lot more about myself in some ways this year. Lots of ups and down and it’s more a mental thing. I don’t think anybody in this room thought we’d be in this position.”
“But that’s the reality.”
Last season, DeBrusk enjoyed a career year, posting 28 goals and 48 points in 82 games, his first with the Canucks. He has reached the 25-goal mark in four of his eight NHL seasons.
Originally selected 14th overall by the Boston Bruins in 2015, DeBrusk has accumulated 179 goals and 343 points in 606 career NHL games with both the Bruins and Canucks.
