The Pittsburgh Penguins have faced a significant setback with the announcement that forward Bryan Rust has been placed on injured reserve. This raises questions about whether Kyle Dubas should consider making a trade.
Losing a top-line forward, especially one who has been vital to the team’s success for the past decade, is never a good sign. The Penguins are feeling the impact of Rust’s absence due to an undisclosed injury, and he is expected to be out on a week-to-week basis. This is a disappointing development for Rust, one of the longest-tenured players on the team, who plays a crucial role alongside stars Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Since 2019, Rust has consistently scored 20 goals a season, averaging over 51 points over the last five years. He was also instrumental in their Stanley Cup victories in 2016 and 2017, contributing 18 points in 46 playoff games, including a decisive Game 7 goal against the Washington Capitals.
However, Rust’s career has been marred by injuries, including broken fingers and various upper and lower body issues, leading to him missing over 100 games. Given his injury history, it might be wise for Dubas to explore trade options.
Now may be the time for the Penguins to make a move. The championship window for Crosby, Malkin, and Kris Letang is narrowing. Time is not on their side, and the team has not performed as well in the playoffs since their last Cup win. With Rust sidelined, Pittsburgh cannot afford any setbacks.
Rust’s absence is a significant blow to the team. While Rickard Rakell can fill in, the chemistry he shares with Crosby and Malkin is hard to replicate. They could consider calling up Rutger McGroarty, but his previous NHL experience was not smooth sailing. The Penguins lack a deep pool of NHL-ready forwards, making a trade a plausible solution.
Moving on from Michael Bunting, who has struggled since his tenure with the Maple Leafs, could provide the Penguins with the flexibility to acquire a top-line replacement for Rust. Warren Foegele could be a strong candidate; he’s younger, signed for an additional year at a lower cost, and has played alongside Connor McDavid, one of the league’s best. While Rust has accumulated 200 more points, playing with McDavid can certainly elevate a player’s game. Foegele could thrive alongside Crosby and Malkin, forming a powerful top line capable of dominating matches. His size—three inches taller and 15 pounds heavier—adds an element of physicality that could benefit the team significantly. The thought of Foegele teaming up with Crosby and Malkin is enticing, though acquiring him may be challenging.
The Penguins need to take action in the trade market. With their championship window still slightly open, Kyle Dubas should act swiftly to secure reinforcements for Crosby and Malkin before that opportunity closes completely.