The Pittsburgh Penguins are expected to make one or two more trades this offseason amid their ongoing rebuild, turning attention to the Bryan Rust <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/hockey/nhl/”>NHL trade destinations as teams seek to improve through the trade market after free agency slowed down. With several key players potentially available, Rust stands out as a prime candidate who could be moved despite his leadership role and close connection with Sidney Crosby.
Rust’s age, contract situation, and value as a versatile winger have made him an attractive trade option for teams needing a boost, especially those looking for a two-way forward with playoff experience. While his departure is not guaranteed due to his stature within the Penguins, the possibility remains strong that he will wear a different jersey in the coming season.
Why the Detroit Red Wings Make Sense as a Destination
The Detroit Red Wings represent a logical landing spot for Bryan Rust given their urgent need for roster upgrades and available resources. Detroit has been relatively quiet this offseason despite a pressing need to break back into playoff contention, creating a vacancy for impactful additions like Rust.
Detroit has over $12 million in salary cap space and a deep pool of prospects and draft picks, which could appeal to Pittsburgh in exchange for Rust. His Michigan roots could also make the transition appealing both for the player and the organization. Detroit’s failure to secure major free agent signings or trades so far puts pressure on them to act swiftly, and acquiring Rust’s two-way skillset could provide an immediate impact.
Buffalo Sabres’ Need for a Change in Culture and Offense
The Buffalo Sabres find themselves in a tough spot after 14 consecutive seasons missing the playoffs, facing intense pressure to improve quickly. Like Detroit, they have considerable salary cap room—over $7 million—and a clear need for offensive contributors following the trade of J.J. Peterka.
Rust’s reputation as a championship-caliber player capable of influencing both offense and defense makes him a valuable asset for Buffalo. The Sabres are desperate to shift the losing mindset ingrained in the team and bring in players who can instill a winning mentality. Rust’s production last season, matching or exceeding many on Buffalo’s roster, highlights the skill and consistency he could offer to this rebuilding team.
Los Angeles Kings Could Use Rust to Boost Their Offense
The Los Angeles Kings have experienced a difficult offseason with defensive changes that appear to have downgraded their lineup, while their offense has remained stagnant. Rust’s two-way ability aligns well with the Kings’ style, and last season he would have ranked third in both goals and points for the team.
The Kings ranked only 14th in goals scored in 2024-25, insufficient to advance them beyond early playoff exits. Though they signed veteran Corey Perry, offensive firepower remains a major concern. Rust’s addition could help elevate the Kings’ scoring depth and provide reliability in critical game moments, though that alone may not fully solve the team’s postseason challenges.
Calgary Flames’ Offensive Weakness Could Make Rust a Key Target
The Calgary Flames surprised many by nearly reaching the playoffs in 2024-25 despite expectations of a rebuilding year, thanks largely to strong defense and goaltending. However, their offensive struggles were evident, ranking 29th in goals scored and lacking multiple consistent scorers.
Calgary still possesses about $15 million in salary cap space and holds two first-round picks in the 2026 draft, positioning them well for acquisition moves. Rust’s scoring ability and two-way play would directly address the Flames’ offensive shortcomings, where only one player managed 30 goals and just two exceeded 47 points last season. Adding a forward of Rust’s caliber is crucial if Calgary aims to build on last year’s progress.
Toronto Maple Leafs Seek a Veteran Presence to Fill a Scoring Void
After losing Mitch Marner in free agency, the Toronto Maple Leafs have attempted to strengthen their roster through multiple smaller signings, seeking quantity as opposed to a single high-profile player. Nonetheless, the team still requires another top-six winger with proven scoring ability and experience in big moments.
Rust fits this profile and could bring the leadership and winning experience that Toronto’s locker room currently lacks. However, with just over $2 million in salary cap space, the Maple Leafs would need to creatively restructure contracts or make other moves to fit Rust under their financial limits. While Rust is not a replacement for Marner’s skill set, his consistent performances in crucial games and ability to contribute offensively make him a compelling option.
The persistent issue for the Maple Leafs has been scoring under pressure in the playoffs, and Rust’s reputation as a clutch performer could help them overcome that hurdle.
As the offseason progresses, the Pittsburgh Penguins must weigh their options carefully when it comes to Bryan Rust, balancing his role in the team’s culture against the potential benefits of a trade. For cities like Detroit, Buffalo, Los Angeles, Calgary, and Toronto, acquiring Rust could be an opportunity to boost their lineups and push playoff ambitions forward.
These trade destinations reflect the high demand for a player who combines skill, experience, and leadership, highlighting how the Penguins’ decisions on Rust will resonate broadly across the NHL landscape this offseason.