NHL-Bryan Rust of the Pittsburgh Penguins (Credit: Getty Images) Bryan Rust has long been a dependable scorer for the Pittsburgh Penguins, and his value around the league remains high, and coming off a productive campaign with 31 goals and 65 points in 71 games. Rust proved he can still deliver offense even on a roster transitioning toward younger talent. His $5.125 million cap hit, locked in through 2027-28, is reasonable for a top-six forward who brings scoring and leadership.
Bryan Rust – 2024-2025 Goals Compilation (All 31 Goals) | Pittsburgh Penguins
Bryan Rust’s contract and consistency attract interest
The question for the Penguins is whether Rust fits into their rebuilding timeline. General manager Kyle Dubas has already signaled a willingness to retool, and trading Rust could bring back assets for the future. Still, his role as part of the team’s core complicates matters. While Pittsburgh may want a premium return, interested clubs know the Penguins are shifting directions, which could limit leverage. Rust remains one of the most attractive names to monitor.
Mason McTavish’s contract dispute puts future in doubt
Over in Anaheim, Mason McTavish’s situation is beginning to raise eyebrows. The Ducks forward, drafted third overall in 2021, posted a career-high 52 points last season. Also proving he’s on track to become a cornerstone player, yet negotiations for a new deal have stalled, leaving his immediate future uncertain, while McTavish is eligible to sign an offer sheet. Anaheim has the financial flexibility to match any realistic proposal.The holdup suggests a deeper disconnect between the player and the front office. Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek has already moved on from other young talents in recent years, fueling speculation that McTavish could also be traded if progress isn’t made. With his combination of age, skill, and upside, interest would be strong across the league. The next few months will be crucial in determining whether Anaheim views him as untouchable or a valuable trade chip.
Erik Karlsson’s contract complicates trade outlook
Erik Karlsson’s name has been tied to trade speculation for months, but his situation is far from straightforward. Now 35, Karlsson remains one of hockey’s premier offensive defensemen, recording 53 points last season, and his skating and playmaking continue to drive offense from the blue line. This makes him an asset for any team in need of a power-play quarterback.
Top 5 Erik Karlsson Career Plays | NHL Countdown
Despite the obstacles, contenders looking for an elite puck mover will keep tabs on Karlsson, and the Penguins, meanwhile, must weigh in. Whether retaining him makes sense during a rebuild, for now, his name remains one of the biggest storylines as teams finalize rosters ahead of the new season.Also Read: Toronto Maple Leafs’ Matthew Knies attends Grant Cruikshank and McKenna’s wedding in Wisconsin