Bryan Rust Suspended by NHL for Multiple Games

The NHL has laid down the law on the latest headshot to cross the Department of Player Safety's desk. It has levied a heavy, three-game suspension on Pittsburgh Penguins forward Bryan Rust, for his high hit on Vancouver Canucks forward Brock Boeser.

Bryan Rust has been suspended three games by @NHLPlayerSafety for his illegal check to the head of Brock Boeser

— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) January 27, 2026

The incident occurred just before the final buzzer in Sunday night's game, while Boeser was fishing for a rebound during a scramble in front of the Penguins' net.

Bryan Rust has been suspended 3 games for his hit on Brock Boeser pic.twitter.com/hJZmQlyvIk

— Spittin' Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) January 27, 2026

"The head is the main point of contact, and it is the head that absorbs the majority of the force. The head contact on this play is avoidable," said the Department of Player Safety in its announcement of the suspension. "Rust takes a poor angle of approach, choosing an angle that causes him to cut across the front of Boeser's body, missing his core. Rust then raises his body and leans into contact, causing direct contact with Boeser's head."

Boeser suffered a head injury, and is now in concussion protocol. He was placed on injured reserve on Monday. He has only 12 goals and 13 assists in his 50 games this season, a disappointing output after he signed a seven-year, $50.75 million extension ($7.25M AAV) with the Canucks in the summer.

Rust has never been fined or suspended before and his 12 year career, but the resulting head injury made for a hefty punishment.

Rust has 18 goals in 39 points in 47 games this season for the Penguins.