Jake DeBrusk explains why he rescinded his trade request

It's been awhile since Boston Bruins forward Jake DeBrusk formally rescinded his trade request and today he's finally opening up on his reasons for doing so.

DeBrusk met with the media after an informal team practice today and was asked for his feelings on things heading into the season and what exactly changed to make him rescind his trade request.

“I think the biggest thing last year was the support I got from this room,” DeBrusk said. “I felt like it was obviously a lot of stuff coming my way for obvious reasons, and the guys in this room kept it tight and kept it as one. That’s something I’ve always loved about this team."

“I’ve always loved the boys and the city and everything else. This is what I’ve known, and this is what I’m comfortable with. It honestly wasn’t that hard of a decision to make. In saying that — and building off last season — it’s one of those things I talked about a little bit, and I was leaning that way, so yeah, that’s how it all happened.”

DeBrusk wouldn't confirm that the team's coaching change affected his decision, but you have to imagine that he's excited for a fresh start. It's no secret that him and former B's bench boss Bruce Cassidy didn't see eye to eye, but with Jim Montgomery now calling the shots DeBrusk can wipe the slate clean. DeBrusk and Montgomery exchanged a few calls and texts this offseason and it's clear that the pair are looking forward to putting DeBrusk's trade request in the past.

“He sent me a couple of texts throughout the year, and he called me as well throughout the summer. [We had] good conversations as just kind of quick introductions,” DeBrusk said. “I haven’t met him yet. I just got here late last night, so I’m looking forward to meeting him. He sounds very eager and excited to put his stamp on this team just like we all are. We’re looking forward to an exciting year.”

Don't be surprised if DeBrusk faces a bit of an increased role under Montgomery as well, given that star forward Brad Marchand is out longterm with a hip injury. Look for Montgomery to lean on a top-six of DeBrusk, Patrice Bergeron, Pavel Zacha, David Pastrnak, Taylor Hall and David Krejci early on in the season.