“Three certainties in life: death, taxes, and speculation about Jake DeBrusk’s future in Boston. As the NHL’s March 8 trade deadline looms closer and with no resolution regarding DeBrusk’s impending free agency, the 27-year-old once again finds himself in limbo regarding his tenure with the team.

Before the start of the season, DeBrusk openly discussed beginning the campaign in the final year of his 2-year, $8 million contract signed in March 2022.

Despite the persistent uncertainty surrounding DeBrusk, he has consistently expressed his desire, at least publicly, to remain in Boston. Almost five months have passed since his remarks about the necessity for both sides to be willing, yet the 27-year-old still faces the prospect of entering free agency. More recently, he reiterated his wish to stay with the Bruins.”

“I maintain a sense of optimism. It would be disheartening if I didn’t. However, I do hope for a positive resolution. I trust my agent to handle negotiations, and I’ve been part of this organization for my entire career. I understand my position within the team, my relationships with my teammates, and my connection to the city, including its ups and downs. I focus on the details and trust that things will work out in the end.”

DeBrusk’s remarks raise questions about how the Bruins’ front office, led by Don Sweeney and Cam Neely, perceives his future with the team. His comments suggest that negotiations for a contract extension have been ongoing, but it’s unclear whether the two sides have reached an agreement on terms.

With five months having passed since the start of negotiations, it’s somewhat concerning that they haven’t reached a consensus on DeBrusk’s value to the team.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his contract situation, DeBrusk has contributed 12 goals and 13 assists for 25 points in 51 games this season. He holds the eighth spot in plus/minus on the team with a +11 rating and ranks eighth in total time on ice among Bruins skaters. DeBrusk has predominantly played on the second line alongside Trent Federic and Pavel Zacha.

The Bruins, coming off a successful regular season last year, currently lead the Eastern Conference and are second in the league, trailing only the Vancouver Canucks in total points. Boston secured a 4-0 victory over the Canucks in their sole meeting last Thursday at TD Garden.

As a member of the Bruins’ 2015 draft class, DeBrusk has amassed 436 games played with the team, ranking fourth among their active roster. Only time will tell whether he continues to build on this tenure with the franchise.