Jake DeBrusk did it all in China. A game winning shootout goal, followed by a two-goal performance and even.... the runs?

"I don't know what the term is here, but he had the runs," said head coach Bruce Cassidy. "I don't know if you can translate that. Several bathroom breaks in a row. Obviously he was able to get back out there."

DeBrusk left Wednesday's 3-1 win in Beijing, China in the second period and did not return until the third. Keeping Bruins fans worried, it was nothing other than a stomach issue for the 21-year old DeBrusk.

“I was feeling perfectly fine until 10 minutes before warmups and then I got a case of the swine flu,” said a smiling DeBrusk. “It was all good. Was lucky enough to get back out there.”

After returning from his bathroom break, DeBrusk scored his first two goals of the preseason, pushing the Bruins to their second win in a row over the Calgary Flames in China and fourth win overall in as many preseason contests.

"He's grown as a player. We used him on the PK a little bit the other night, a little bit tonight. He's a little more conscientious in that area, aware, with a year under his belt," added Cassidy. "Not surprised. Lots of pace to his game, finish in tight. He showed a lot of that the second half of last year. Good growth."

DeBrusk is locked into the left wing slot on the Bruins second line. As is David Krejci at the center position. Who plays to their right still remains to be seen. Rookie Ryan Donato is one of the Bruins many options to fill the void on the second line. Donato and DeBrusk skated together in both China games this week, a sign that Donato may be getting the first crack on the second line.

Personally I'm a big fan of DeBrusk. I love the way he plays the game and I think he's poised for a monster year on the Bruins second line. The Bruins hope that his hot start to the preseason is a sign of things to come.

Jakub Lauko introducing himself to Bruins fans
If you've never heard the name Jakub Lauko, don't worry, you're not alone. But after two preseason games against the Washington Capitals, the Lauko name is becoming a popular one.

Drafted by the Bruins in the third round of the NHL Entry Draft this past June, Lauko has been a pleasant surprise for the Bruins. Playing with the team's domestic squad here in America, Lauko has arguably been the best of the Bruins bunch.

The 18-year old Lauko has two goals in two preseason games and is showing Bruins management he is ready to stay and play hockey at the professional level in America.

His goal in Tuesday's 5-1 victory over the Washington Capitals was a perfect showcase of his talents. As his two-minute minor for holding expired, Lauko sprinted out of the box, caught up to a pass from Austin Fyten and fired home a quick wrister past Braden Holtby. His hockey sense, speed and quick shot were all on display on his first period tally.

Lauko also showed he's not afraid to stick up for himself, regardless of who is on the other end. We saw him get under the skin of Capitals veteran T.J. Oshie which resulted in Oshie giving Lauko an introductory shove as the youngster skated back to the bench. Lauko responded with a shove of his own before hoping over the boards.

"I have respect for these guys, but I'm not afraid of them," said Lauko. "If I have a chance to go under their skin, I will go there."

Lauko has been very open about his desire to stay in America instead of going back to his native of the Czech Republic for another season. If he is to stick around with the Bruins, it will be at the AHL level as the Bruins are set at left wing for the time being.

Lauko will continue to play for an entry-level deal in the final two weeks of the preseason, but through two games thus far, he's showing that he is deserving of one.

Join the Discussion: » 9 Comments » Post New Comment

» The End of an Era?

» Linus Ullmark or Jeremy Swayman in Game 7?

» Home Not So Sweet Home

» Bruins Depth On Full Display In Sunrise Sweep

» Bruins Drop Game 2 After Ugly Performance