Louie DeBrusk is a former professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for over a decade. He was known for his physical play and willingness to drop the gloves and fight opponents.
DeBrusk began his hockey career in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Swift Current Broncos. He was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in the third round of the 1989 NHL Entry Draft and made his NHL debut with the team in the 1991-92 season.
DeBrusk played for several NHL teams throughout his career, including the Oilers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Phoenix Coyotes, and Chicago Blackhawks. He was primarily used as an enforcer and played a total of 401 NHL games, scoring 24 goals and 28 assists.
One of DeBrusk's most memorable moments came during the 1996 playoffs when he fought Colorado Avalanche player Claude Lemieux. The fight was sparked by Lemieux's hit on Detroit Red Wings player Kris Draper, which resulted in a broken jaw and other injuries. DeBrusk's fight with Lemieux was seen as a form of retribution for Draper and helped to ignite a fierce rivalry between the Red Wings and Avalanche.
After retiring from the NHL in 2003, DeBrusk transitioned to a career in broadcasting. He currently works as a color commentator for Sportsnet, providing analysis and commentary on NHL games.
Throughout his career, DeBrusk was known for his toughness and willingness to stand up for his teammates. He was a fan favorite for his physical play and his ability to energize his team with a big hit or fight. While he may not have been the most skilled player on the ice, DeBrusk's contributions to his teams were invaluable and he remains a beloved figure in the hockey world.
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