Video: Jake DeBrusk Talks Game-Winning Goal, Performance In Series Vs. Leafs
Jake DeBrusk on his performance in Game 7 and the series: ‘I was really happy to contribute.’
We’re happy too, @JDebrusk. We’re happy too. pic.twitter.com/irVKzjz2DB
— 98.5 The Sports Hub (@985TheSportsHub) April 26, 2018
By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
Jake DeBrusk played the role of hero for the Boston Bruins on Wednesday night. The precocious rookie scored two goals, including the game-winner on an excellent individual effort, to rally the Bruins past the Maple Leafs in a Game 7 thriller. Check out part of DeBrusk’s postgame reaction in the above video.
DeBrusk finished with five goals and two assists in his first career playoff series, and brought the most consistent effort on the team throughout the seven-game tilt against Toronto. But when asked about his performance in Game 7 and the series, the mild-mannered 21-year-old stayed humble.
“I was really happy to contribute,” said DeBrusk. “Obviously tonight with the home crowd here, too, and how the game was going – it was back and forth and emotions were pretty crazy. … It was nice to get on the board and help the team win.”
Ladies and gentlemen, your series winner, courtesy of @JDebrusk. pic.twitter.com/7QiApz0VeW
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) April 26, 2018
On the goal, a five-hole snap shot on a lightning-quick 4-on-4 rush, DeBrusk took a tumble behind the net as the puck crossed the goal line to put the Bruins on top. He had to rely on the aforementioned TD Garden crowd to know the result. Well, it got pretty loud at that point.
DeBrusk also usually likes to celebrate his goals with a flourish, but didn’t quite have that opportunity this time as he fell to the boards. But it was nonetheless an unforgettable moment for the rookie.
“I think my celebration kind of said it itself,” said DeBrusk. “I just couldn’t believe it went in. It was a pretty special moment.
“I like to celly pretty hard. I would’ve celly’d pretty hard if I was on my feet, that’s for sure, but at the same time it didn’t really matter. It was just nice at that time of the game to get that kind of goal. It was something I’ll never forget, especially being my first Game 7.”
Apr 25, 2018; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Bruins left wing Jake DeBrusk (74) reacts during the first period against the Toronto Maple Leafs in game seven of the first round of the 2018 Stanley Cup Playoffs at TD Garden. (Photo Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports)
With the Bruins on to the second round, they can feel pretty good about themselves knowing they have a dynamic, tenacious, and now clutch young winger to rely upon to back up their top line. After that series-saving performance, it’s safe to say that DeBrusk has arrived.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.
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