Bryan Rust Close to Returning? Penguins Coach Dan Muse Provides Update

Bryan Rust's return to the Pittsburgh Penguins lineup is imminent, but the Penguins are taking no chances.

The positive news was provided by head coach Dan Muse, who said that Rust is improving and that there are conversations underway about when he'll be game-ready.

Muse employed Rust's value to the team in repeating the mantra of long-term thinking.

Rust has been out since the opening week in October with a lower-body issue that had at least a two-week return timeline initially.

Following a missed opener, he began practicing on Oct. 8 as a full participant, which was a positive indication that his return is going well. Rust remains on injured reserve, but can be back soon, depending on how the next couple of days go.

The 33-year-old winger has previously had to recover from early-season injuries, though, and he's demonstrated that he has a tendency to bounce back quickly.

He sat out the first two games last season before recording a career-high 31 goals and 65 points in 71 contests, indicating just how important he is when he's healthy.

For the time being, the Penguins seem to be juggling optimism and patience. With Rust trending in the right direction and the club having a good start, Pittsburgh will attempt to get him back for the stretch.