The Pittsburgh Penguins are reportedly open to trading Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell during the NHL summer, according to insider Josh Yohe of The Athletic. Both players have been included in trade discussions since the conclusion of last season, with general manager Kyle Dubas taking a measured approach to potentially parting ways with these veterans.
Dubas is not rushing the process and may start the upcoming season with both players to enhance their value before the March trade deadline. However, league sources suggest that at least one of these wingers is likely to be traded this summer.
“If the 2025-26 season begins with both Rust and Rakell on the Penguins’ top line, the organization wouldn’t see that as a failure,” Yohe wrote in his column. “However, league sources say they expect at least one of the wingers to be dealt this summer.”
—Josh Yohe, Insider
Performance and Contract Details of Rust and Rakell
Last season, Bryan Rust recorded 31 goals and 34 assists over 71 games, marking his second-best output in both categories. He averaged over 19 minutes of ice time per game and frequently played alongside Sidney Crosby on Pittsburgh’s top line. Rickard Rakell matched Rust’s goal total with 35 but contributed the same number of assists, totaling 70 points in 81 games. Rakell played both wings effectively and posted a solid 17.2% shooting percentage. He is entering the fourth year of a six-year deal valued at $30 million.
Interest from Other Teams and the Impact of Free-Agent Signings
The Carolina Hurricanes had shown interest in acquiring Rust and Rakell before signing free agent Nikolaj Ehlers to a six-year, $51 million contract. Had the Hurricanes failed to secure Ehlers, they likely would have pursued one of the Penguins’ wingers. Pittsburgh was reportedly open to negotiations in such a scenario.
“The Carolina Hurricanes had interest in Rust and Rakell. Then they signed Nikolaj Ehlers. … Had Carolina failed to land the coveted free agent, they would’ve attempted to pry either Rust or Rakell out of Pittsburgh. …But the Penguins were prepared to talk business,” Yohe added.
—Josh Yohe, Insider
Other franchises, including Washington, were also in the running for Ehlers and may still be monitoring developments regarding Pittsburgh’s veteran players.
Team Performance and Motivation for Roster Changes
The Penguins missed the playoffs for the third consecutive season, finishing 31-35-12 last year. Defensive struggles and goaltending issues contributed significantly to this outcome. Both Rust and Rakell ended the campaign with a minus-21 rating, underscoring the challenges faced by Pittsburgh’s lineup. The team heavily relied on its top line, led by Sidney Crosby, who tallied 86 points.
Potential for Youth Movement and Roster Revamp
Pittsburgh’s defense was among the league’s weakest, allowing 3.58 goals per game, second-worst in the NHL last year. The organization has several young prospects ready to take on larger roles and possesses 30 draft picks spanning the next three years. Trading Rust or Rakell could expedite a youth movement, providing the Penguins with a chance to add depth and improve long-term competitiveness.
Trade discussions are anticipated to continue throughout the summer, with potential moves taking place before the new season kicks off. Additionally, the Penguins are reportedly exploring trade options for defenseman Eric Karlsson, including talks with the Detroit Red Wings. Pittsburgh may retain part of Karlsson’s salary as part of a deal.