Louie DeBrusk, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, spent over a decade in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily known for his role as an enforcer. Born on March 19, 1971, in Cambridge, Ontario, DeBrusk was drafted 49th overall by the New York Rangers in the 1989 NHL Entry Draft. However, it was with the Edmonton Oilers that he began his NHL career after being traded in a multi-player deal that included Mark Messier.
DeBrusk made his NHL debut with the Oilers during the 1991-1992 season. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing over 230 pounds, he was known for his physical style of play and willingness to drop the gloves. His role on the ice was primarily to protect his teammates and provide a physical presence, which was a valued asset in the league during the 1990s.
Throughout his time with the Oilers, DeBrusk played in 401 regular-season games, accumulating 41 points and 1,161 penalty minutes. His time in Edmonton saw him become a fan favorite for his toughness and team spirit. Despite not being a prolific scorer, his contributions were valued in the locker room and on the ice for his ability to stand up for his teammates.
In 1997, DeBrusk was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he continued to play his role as an enforcer. His tenure with the Lightning was brief, and he soon found himself moving to the Phoenix Coyotes. With the Coyotes, DeBrusk continued to play his gritty style of hockey, adding depth to the team's roster.
DeBrusk's career also included a stint with the Chicago Blackhawks, where he played before eventually returning to the Edmonton Oilers for a brief period. His final NHL games were played with the Oilers, bringing his career full circle back to the team where he first made his mark in the league.
After retiring from professional hockey, DeBrusk transitioned into a career in broadcasting. He became a color analyst for hockey games, sharing his insights and experiences from his time on the ice. His son, Jake DeBrusk, followed in his footsteps and became an NHL player, continuing the family's connection to the sport.
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