Penguins: 3 Teams Who Could Acquire Bryan Rust

As the Pittsburgh Penguins slowly break down, a lot of top players are trade candidates even though most of them have yet to be moved. Players like Erik Karlsson, Rickard Rakell, and Bryan Rust have drawn interest, but in the case of Rust, there are three teams linked to the veteran by David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period.

Toronto Maple Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs are still searching for that top-6 player, even after acquiring three forwards this offseason. While Matias Maccelli should be a solid complement on the first or second line, Max Domi could shift down to make room for Rust. He is more than capable of playing with top talent as he has been doing so beside Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin for years. Rust would be able to make up for a good amount of the offense lost when Mitch Marner moved on as the Penguin scored 31 goals and 65 points in 71 games last season. The cap space could also work nicely if someone like Calle Jarnkrok was moved out.

Columbus Blues Jackets

It isn't the easiest for the Columbus Blue Jackets to always attract free agents, but players like playing there and living there once they arrive. In Rust's case, the Blue Jackets have a better chance of making the playoffs and having sustained success for the rest of his contract than if he stays with the Penguins. With three years left on his deal, Rust won't come cheap to acquire. Fortunately for Columbus, either Yagor Chinakhov, who asked for a trade, or Dmitri Voronkov, who was listed as a trade candidate, could be the main piece headed back to Pittsburgh, who are looking for younger talent.

Buffalo Sabres

While the Buffalo Sabres have been linked to multiple high-end forwards, it makes a lot of sense considering they moved JJ Peterka and Josh Doan, who they got back, is not at the same level or stage in his career yet. The Sabres easily have multiple center options to suit them, so by shifting Tage Thompson back over to the middle, Rust could slide in a top-6 right wing role. The 33-year-old played nearly 20 minutes per game last season and the Sabres need some older talent who knows what it takes to get to the playoffs. He can also play on the power play and penalty kill.