NHL Rumors: Penguins Not Having Extension Talks With Forward

Since returning from his long-term injury, Bryan Rust has simply been excellent. However, even with this being the case, the Pittsburgh Penguins are still not having extension talks with the forward, according to David Pagnotta.

Over his last 17 games, Rust has a ridiculous 15 goals to go along with 13 assists. This kind of excellent stretch is only helping increase the amount of money he could land on his next contract. However, with the Penguins also having to re-sign players like Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang to contracts this offseason, it may make it hard for them to keep Rust around.

In 29 total games this season, Rust has 17 goals, 20 assists, and a plus-7 rating. This kind of season will make him a big target if he hits the open market. Teams are always looking for top-six right wingers, and he's having a career year at the perfect time.

It will be interesting to see if the Penguins and Rust begin to have discussions soon. He's become a big part of their roster over the last handful of years, so they should at least try to keep him around.