Bryan Rust Linked to Canadian Team as Penguins Eye Potential Move

Day One of NHL free agency wasn't quite as earth-shattering as some might have hoped.

Big names like Mitch Marner, Brock Boeser, Brad Marchand, and K'Andre Miller were all taken off the board in quick succession, either re-signed (Boeser, Marchand) or traded and signed elsewhere (Marner, Miller).

Short of Nikolaj Ehlers, the marquee free-agent pool is now rather shallow. With the best choices shrinking, suitors are looking toward the trade market, and all eyes point to Pittsburgh's Bryan Rust.

Rust, 33, is also coming off a career year, notching 31 goals and 65 points in 71 games. His cap hit? A modest $5.125 million over the next three years, which looks like a steal compared to deals like Boeser's seven-year, $7.25 million contract.

Add in Rust's playoff experience, leadership, and clutch gene, and he's one of the most appealing trade targets still available.

Penguins GM Kyle Dubas has made it evident: if a team wants Rust, they'll need to pay a premium, perhaps an overpay. Rust isn't being shopped, yet he is available if the price is right.

One team reportedly kicking the tires is the Edmonton Oilers. NHL insider Darren Dreger said Edmonton has been linked to Rust, and that interest could increase if they lose out on other free agent options.

With little top-six help left in free agency, Rust is now the hottest name on the trade market.