NHL Trade Rumors: 2 Teams Linked To Penguins' Bryan Rust

Monday, June 30, 2025 , ,
Pittsburgh Penguins forward Bryan Rust with Sidney Crosby and Rickard Rakell during 2025 game.

Bryan Rust may have played his last game in a Pittsburgh Penguins jersey, with the Buffalo Sabres and Columbus Blue Jackets emerging as serious contenders for the veteran winger. 

According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman and The Athletic’s Josh Yohe, both teams have expressed interest in acquiring Rust, who’s coming off a career year with 31 goals and 65 points in 71 games. As Pittsburgh retools its roster under GM Kyle Dubas, Rust’s rising trade value and team-friendly contract ($5.125 million AAV through 2027-28) make him an attractive asset on the block.

Sabres and Blue Jackets Linked to Penguins’ Bryan Rust in Trade Talks

The Sabres are especially intriguing. After trading JJ Peterka to the Utah Mammoth, they’re searching for a proven top-six winger to round out their forward group. Rust’s veteran presence, two-way play, and Stanley Cup pedigree make him a needed fit for a Buffalo team desperate to snap its 14-year playoff drought.

With Rust's no-move clause expiring on July 1, expect the Penguins and Kyle Dubas to be flooded with trade offers.

Blue Jackets Also See Rust as a Fit for Their Emerging Core

Columbus is another Eastern Conference team reportedly in the mix for Rust. The Blue Jackets are building around young talent like Adam Fantilli and Kent Johnson but could benefit from a playoff-tested veteran who can score, kill penalties, and provide some more leadership on and off the ice. Adding Rust would also help stabilize their top six and improve their power play, both of which have struggled in recent seasons.

At 32, Rust is still a dangerous offensive force and fan favorite, but with the Penguins shifting toward youth (e.g., drafting Benjamin Kindel), this summer may be the best time to cash in.

Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

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