The Bruins Should Not Trade Jake DeBrusk

With the trade deadline approaching quickly, many are beginning to wonder what the Bruins will or will not do.

There have been rumors the team would try to acquire Ryan McDonagh from the New York Rangers – a number-one proven defenseman – if the price was right.

However, it was reported by Joe Haggerty of NBC Sports Boston that part of what would make the price right would be Bruins rookie sensation Jake DeBrusk.

To that I say a big fat hell no.

I’ve said it many times this season: this Bruins team is clicking on all levels and part of that has to do with how well the youth is playing – including DeBrusk.

The 21-year-old has 11 goals and 18 assists, good for 29 points through 51 games played. He racked up 17 penalty minutes in a game earlier this season when coming into that game he had zero penalty minutes.

He’s been unreal and has exceeded a lot of expectations for the team and himself this season. He possesses a special type of skills in leadership you don’t see often – especially from a rookie.

And these are the kinds of players you want to hold on to at all costs.

Of course, McDonagh would be a good fit here in Boston, I’m not denying that. He’d probably make a great pairing with Charlie McAvoy and would be a great veteran voice and leader when B’s captain Zdeno Chara decides to hang up the skates.

It’s likely the Rangers won’t deal McDonagh unless they have a solid offer from Boston, Tampa Bay or any other potential suitor and New York aren’t desperate to move him. But if the only way to get McDonagh in the eight-spoked B uniform is to get rid of DeBrusk, Boston should stay clear.

Boston is playing really good hockey right now and are sitting in second place in their division as well as the league – there is absolutely no need to risk ruining the chemistry they have now to bring in a veteran who could potentially change what the B’s have going on now.

Don Sweeney is in a fantastic position with this team right now with the youth and the prospects they have as well. The Bruins are performing at a level the fans haven’t seen them perform at in years and a big part of that is due to the youth they have.

If the Rangers won’t move McDonagh without the Bruins giving up DeBrusk, then that’s fine. DeBrusk is bound to have a solid multi-year career and is already proving that. I don’t want to get rid of a long-term player for someone who could be a rental.

Lauren Campbell (@lalalalaurrrren)