This Western Conference team is expected to target Jake DeBrusk.

Boston Bruins forward Jake DeBrusk is a player to watch incredibly closely over the next month and some change. The 2015 first-round pick is the Bruins’ top unrestricted free agent, and there is naturally some worry that he won’t return.

While GM Don Sweeney has made it clear that he wants to re-sign DeBrusk, it is far from set in stone that it will occur.

A new expected suitor for No. 74 has emerged. According to The Hockey News’ Spencer Lazary, Utah is expected to make a push for DeBrusk if the Bruins can’t get the sniper signed to a new deal before July 1.

When noting that Utah needs more scoring and has plenty of cap space to work with, it is not surprising that they have an expected interest in DeBrusk. He would give their top six a significant boost, as he is not only an impactful offensive player but also offers plenty of playoff experience.

Another reason DeBrusk makes sense as a target for Utah is that he is still just 27 years old. Because of this, he would fit well into the club’s rising roster and, if signed, have the potential to be a long-term part of their core.

It will now be interesting to see what happens with DeBrusk from here. The Bruins should continue to work hard to get a contract done with him, but if they can’t, we should expect Utah to be in the mix for his services this summer.