NHL Insider Chris Johnston released his final trading tip for The Athleticand two Pittsburgh Penguins were retained: defenseman Brett Kulak and forward Bryan Rust.
Kulak was assigned the 21st spot on Johnston’s list. The 32-year-old defenseman certainly has the potential to draw interest from suitors, as he is a solid bottom-line defender with plenty of playoff experience.
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In 10 games with the Penguins since being acquired from the Edmonton Oilers earlier this season, Kulak has recorded two assists, 20 blocks and an even plus/minus rating. That’s after he had two assists and a minus-7 rating in 31 games with the Oilers before being acquired by Pittsburgh.
Rust, on the other hand, landed the 32nd spot on Johnston’s new trading chart. The star winger has been the subject of trade rumors for some time, but the Penguins don’t need to rush to focus around him either. That’s because he is signed through the end of the 2027-28 season.
Any potential trade for Rust would be a big deal, as he is an extremely important piece of the Penguins roster. However, with the Penguins also focused on the future, he has the potential to be a great bargaining chip for them if they are willing to move him.
