Penguins Lose Bryan Rust to Three-Game Suspension After Hit on Boeser
The Pittsburgh Penguins are heading into a critical stretch of the season without one of their most dependable veterans. Forward Bryan Rust has been suspended three games by the NHL’s Department of Player Safety following an illegal hit to the head of Vancouver Canucks winger Brock Boeser in the final seconds of Sunday’s 3-2 win.
The play in question came during the dying moments of a tight game, with Vancouver pushing hard for a late equalizer. Rust, in an aggressive attempt to separate Boeser from the puck, launched into a high-contact hit that ultimately helped preserve the victory-but at a cost. While initial contact appeared to land on Boeser’s chest and shoulder, the NHL ruled there was significant contact to the head, which triggered the suspension.
Rust has built a reputation as a high-motor, two-way forward who plays the game with integrity. He doesn’t have a history of disciplinary issues, which makes this ruling notable. But the league’s stance on head contact is clear: intent doesn’t always matter when player safety is compromised.
The aftermath was immediate. Boeser was placed on injured reserve by the Canucks, and the Penguins were left bracing for the league’s decision.
Once the Department of Player Safety scheduled a hearing for Tuesday morning, the writing was on the wall. Pittsburgh had hoped for leniency, but the league made its position clear.
Rust’s absence will be felt. At 33, he’s been a steady force on Sidney Crosby’s line, producing 18 goals and 39 points through 47 games. He’s a key piece of both special teams units-killing penalties and contributing on the top power play-and his relentless energy often sets the tone for Pittsburgh's forward group.
The Penguins will need to adjust quickly. Their next game comes Thursday at home against the Chicago Blackhawks, and without Rust, they’ll be looking for someone to step into a top-six role and help shoulder the offensive and defensive responsibilities he normally carries.
St. Ivany Out Up to Eight Weeks After Hand Surgery
The Penguins' blue line also took a hit this week. Defenseman Jack St. Ivany underwent surgery on his left hand, and the team expects him to be out for up to eight weeks.
St. Ivany had been carving out a role on the third pairing, bringing steady play and some recent offensive spark. Before exiting Sunday’s game after logging less than three minutes, he had posted back-to-back two-assist performances in Calgary and Edmonton.
With St. Ivany sidelined, Pittsburgh will likely need to shuffle its defensive pairings and possibly dip into its depth or AHL affiliate for reinforcements. The timing isn’t ideal, but in a long NHL season, adversity is part of the grind.
Between Rust’s suspension and St. Ivany’s injury, the Penguins are being tested. How they respond over the next few games could say a lot about their staying power in the playoff race.