Sidney Crosby’s desire to win hasn’t faded, but the window to do so is slowly closing. One of his longtime teammates, Bryan Rust, might soon be on the move, and it could have ripple effects across the Pittsburgh Penguins’ roster.
What Could a Bryan Rust Trade Potentially Hold for the Pittsburgh Penguins?
Rust still has three years remaining on a six-year, $30.75 million deal. He’s a reliable winger with a $5.125 million cap hit and is coming off a strong season with 31 goals and 65 points in 71 games. That kind of production, along with his leadership, makes him an attractive option for contenders.
Although the Penguins are not actively shopping him, league insiders suggest Rust isn’t untouchable. According to Josh Yohe, a senior writer for The Athletic, general manager Kyle Dubas is in no rush to deal the veteran winger but won’t hesitate if the right offer comes through. The idea, reportedly, is to wait and see how the market develops.
“His departure will make the Penguins significantly worse in the short term. There’s also the reality that Crosby, who wants to win sooner rather than later, wouldn’t be thrilled with the move. However, team sources said Dubas will move Rust if he gets the right offer. Rust is not untouchable,” Yohe wrote.
If a deal does happen, it’ll likely come closer to the trade deadline.
Letting go of Rust wouldn’t be easy. He’s been a consistent part of the Penguins’ top six and still contributes in all situations. More importantly, it’s hard to imagine Crosby, still hungry for another Cup, would be thrilled about losing one of his most dependable linemates.
Sidney Crosby with an UNREAL pass to Bryan Rust who buries his second goal of the game! 🐧
✅ B. Rust To Score 2+ Goals +1100
(via @NHL)pic.twitter.com/WXRInAXzRN
— ESPN BET (@ESPNBET) April 18, 2025
“It’s difficult to say what an acceptable return for Rust would be. I’ve been told neither Rust nor [Penguins winger Rickard] Rakell is the least bit unmovable,” Yohe added.
The Penguins missed the playoffs for a second straight year, finishing near the bottom of the Eastern Conference. The management faces tough decisions with over $22 million in cap space and a rebuild looming. Crosby, now 37, remains the face of the franchise, but even he knows time is short.
If Rust is dealt away, the Penguins could look for help on the blue line. Names like Bowen Byram have surfaced as possible additions. Still, trading away a core piece like Rust could send a mixed message, especially to a captain who’s spent his career chasing championships.
Dubas appears willing to listen, but he likely won’t move Rust just for the sake of change. And with his no-movement clause expiring soon, the Penguins could find themselves in the middle of a bidding war. The decision ahead is complicated. Do the Penguins stay loyal to their stars and make one more run, or do they cash in now and start building for what’s next?
