Jake DeBrusk’s Bruins Future Still A Question Mark As Camp Begins

All summer long, it seemed apparent that both Jake DeBrusk, and the Boston Bruins, were hoping to renew their relationship for the long term. The latest report now, however, is that talks on an extension have yet to truly begin for the B's and their pending unrestricted free agent. 

As noted by beat writer Joe Haggerty, "it’s clear DeBrusk would like to initiate things with the Bruins on another extension." And for GM Don Sweeney, he seems to want to get a deal done as well—but reading between the lines, on his terms.

“We’d like to know if Jake indeed does want to be here,” Sweeney said. “Hopefully we can find common ground. Besides that, I’m not going to comment on anything publicly. We’d like to see Jake remain with the Boston Bruins.”

So why hasn't anything happened yet? DeBrusk isn't sure:

When it comes to contract talks, it’s one of those things where you need two sides to tango. Whenever that happens, that happens.

According to Fluto Shinzawa of The Athletic, whether the Bruins are ready to commit to a full 8-year extension for the top-six winger is still "unknown". He writes that an extension for DeBrusk might "have to wait." 'Wait' until they see if he takes the next step after a career-best 50-point season and becomes that "go-to" guy they expect? Or 'wait' until they assess their need to save dollars and cap space for a much-needed center? 

That all remains to be seen. And in the meantime, according to Shinzawa, and trying to decipher Sweeney's comments, it sounds like the season could start with DeBrusk still being an impending UFA.