Jim Montgomery Reveals How Jake DeBrusk Handled Punishment

Jake DeBrusk made a mistake, endured the consequence and promptly turned the page.

DeBrusk was a healthy scratch from the Bruins’ win over the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena on Saturday night. It was an act of punishment from Jim Montgomery rather than a strategic decision, as Boston’s head coach revealed DeBrusk broke a team rule by being late for a meeting.

The absence was brief, as DeBrusk was back on the ice for the Bruins on Sunday night in Anaheim. Prior to puck drop at Honda Center, Montgomery revealed the 27-year-old handled his punishment “like a pro” and the message going into the tilt against the Ducks was simple: “Yesterday (Saturday) is over with, worry about today (Sunday).”

DeBrusk, who took complete accountability for his slip-up, took that directive in stride. The seventh-year pro assisted on the second of Matthew Poitras’ two goals, which proved to be the game-winner in the Bruins’ 3-1 win over the Ducks. The victory maintained Boston’s unblemished record, one of only three in the NHL entering Monday.

The Bruins’ top-line left wing will try to make a positive impact for his team again Tuesday evening when the Black and Gold wrap up their four-game road trip. Boston and the Chicago Blackhawks are scheduled to drop the puck at 8:30 p.m. ET.