NHL Rumors: Proposed Trade Sends Bryan Rust To Atlantic Division Team
Josh Wegman of theScore recently floated a mock trade that would see the veteran winger sent to his hometown Detroit Red Wings, a move that could satisfy both teams’ needs at very different stages of their trajectories.
What the deal looks like
In Wegman’s proposal, Detroit would acquire Rust while the Penguins would receive forward Jonatan Berggren, defenseman William Wallinder, and a 2026 first-round pick (top-10 protected).
For the Red Wings, the trade answers an obvious need for proven scoring depth in their top-six. For the Penguins, it’s a chance to restock their system with a young forward, a promising defenseman, and another first-rounder in what projects to be a strong draft.
Bryan Rust is headed to Team USA's Olympic Orientation Camp! 👀
— Penguins PR (@PenguinsPR) August 19, 2025
Rust is one of only five Americans, and 19 players overall, to have six or more 20-goal seasons since 2019-20. https://t.co/2Z65hbGQ7X pic.twitter.com/XBEuUEzhA9
Why it makes sense for both sides
Rust, 33, is coming off a career-best 65-point season and still has three years left on his $5.125 million AAV deal. The Michigan native would immediately provide Detroit with the type of reliable offense and playoff-style grit the team has been missing during its playoff drought.
Pittsburgh, meanwhile, would be cashing in on one of its most valuable trade chips at a time when GM Kyle Dubas is clearly trying to get younger around Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.
It's awesome to see Bryan Rust on this list. He's earned it.
— Pens Inside Scoop (@PensInsideScoop) August 19, 2025
We had some good conversations during his career year last season (he had 31 goals and 65 points), and at one point, he said being part of Team USA was a goal of his. Love the full quote about his overall mindset ⬇️ https://t.co/5Lm9NPXcL9 pic.twitter.com/E0acTIaB3e
The bigger picture
There’s no question that moving Rust would sting for Penguins fans. He’s been a key part of two Stanley Cup runs and a trusted linemate for Crosby. But with Pittsburgh unlikely to contend in the short term, Wegman’s mock deal outlines exactly the kind of return that makes sense.
Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
