Penguins Challenge Bryan Rust’s Three-Game Suspension

Pittsburgh Penguins forward Bryan Rust has been suspended for three games due to an illegal check to the head of Vancouver Canucks player Brock Boeser. The NHL made this announcement on Tuesday following Rust’s hit during a game on Sunday, where the Penguins triumphed 3-2 on the road against the Canucks.

Penguins’ Key Player Faces Suspension

The incident occurred late in the game, during a scramble in front of the Penguins’ net. Rust’s right shoulder made contact with Boeser’s jaw, leading to Boeser leaving the ice in discomfort. The Canucks subsequently placed Boeser on injured reserve the following day.

NHL’s Rationale for Suspension

The NHL explained its decision through a video detailing the criteria for Rust’s suspension. Key points included:

• Rust’s check targeted Boeser’s head, making it the primary point of contact.
• The head contact was avoidable, as Rust could have approached from a different angle.
• Rust’s check violated the league’s rules regarding head contact.

This marks the first disciplinary action in Rust’s 12-year NHL career, which includes over 750 games. He will lose $80,078.13 in salary, with the amount going to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.

Reaction from Penguins’ Coach

Head Coach Dan Muse expressed his discontent with the severity of the suspension. He emphasized Rust’s consistent effort and clean playing style throughout his career. Muse stated, “Three games is a lot,” firmly believing that Rust is not a dirty player and that he plays the game the right way.

Implications of the Suspension

With Rust sidelined, other players will need to step up. Rust plays a vital role on the team, contributing effectively as a right winger and on special teams. This season, he ranks as the Penguins’ third-leading scorer, with 39 points from 18 goals and 21 assists across 47 games, averaging over 20 minutes of ice time.

Additional Team Updates

In other news, Penguins defenseman Jack St. Ivany is set to miss approximately eight weeks due to surgery on his left hand. Additionally, defensive prospect Emil Pieniniemi has been promoted to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton from the ECHL team in Wheeling after resolving a dispute regarding his development plan.