Penguins–Maple Leafs Trade Rumor Involves Veteran Top-Six Forward
As the Pittsburgh Penguins navigate a transitional 2025-26 season, trade speculation continues to swirl. While much of the attention has focused on big names like Sidney Crosby—despite his desire to stay—and Evgeni Malkin, who is rumored to be retiring after this season, there’s another key player quietly emerging as a trade candidate: Bryan Rust. 
Rust remains one of Pittsburgh’s top forwards and could draw significant interest on the trade market. While the Buffalo Sabres and Columbus Blue Jackets have reportedly shown interest, the Toronto Maple Leafs stand out as a serious potential destination—especially as they explore options to replace Mitch Marner in their top six.
Proposed Trade (via Heavy Sports):
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Maple Leafs receive: Bryan Rust
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Penguins receive: Nick Robertson, Calle Jarnkrok, Henry Thrun, and a 2027 second-round pick
Toronto Reportedly Interested in Bryan Rust
If the Penguins choose to keep Rust heading into the season, there’s still a strong possibility he’ll be moved before the trade deadline. The Fourth Period listed Rust fifth on its summer trade watch list, and The Athletic’s Josh Yohe noted that Rust’s future with the Penguins is uncertain amid their rebuild.
Rust’s no-movement clause expired on June 30, meaning he can now be traded without restrictions. With three years remaining on his $5.13 million AAV contract through 2027-28, Rust is an attractive option for contending teams—especially given his consistent production.
Rust’s Value and Potential Asking Price
The 33-year-old winger has been a steady scorer, putting up 56 points in 62 games during the 2023-24 season, and following that up with 65 points in 71 games last season. Considering he played on a struggling Penguins squad, there’s reason to believe he could be even more productive with a stronger supporting cast. On a line with Auston Matthews in Toronto, Rust could potentially hit 70–75 points over a full season.
That potential may push Penguins GM Kyle Dubas to seek more in return. If Toronto isn’t willing to include higher-end prospects like Easton Cowan or Ben Danford, Pittsburgh may pass and look elsewhere.
Evaluating the Trade Offer
Michael DeRosa of The Hockey News suggests Pittsburgh may be inclined to “sell high” after Rust’s strong season, in which he hit career highs with 31 goals and 65 points. His manageable cap hit only increases his trade value.
Even as the Penguins rebuild, they still need capable NHL players. The Leafs’ proposal offers a young forward in Robertson, a depth defenseman in Thrun, and a versatile veteran Dubas is familiar with in Jarnkrok. Adding a 2027 second-rounder gives Pittsburgh both immediate depth and future assets.
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