Jake DeBrusk v Brett Howden

[StamkosFan]

Which forward prospect is better; Brett Howden or Jake DeBrusk? Just in terms of overall skill and likeliness to reach the NHL level quickly. Thanks!

[russtyj]

I like Debrusk here.

Debrusk had a somewhat poor Draft+1 year (iirc some sort of injury) and a slow start to his year in the AHL (7pts in 19GP) but finished the year with 49pts in 74GP (42pts in 55GP rest of the way). He shoots almost 3 shots a game. I see him projecting as a 2nd line winger.

Howden had a better D+1 year than Debrusk has looked good in the AHL thus far (small sample size) but I think he is at the very least, a year behind Debrusk in terms of readiness for the NHL and he doesn't have as much opportunity in the top 6 in Tampa at the moment. Howden also has an edge in size.

[ericdaoust]

I like Debrusk here. He's farther along in his development and he'll have a ton of opportunities with the Bruins. They will need him in the near future.