The Penguins signed popular right wing and soon-to-be free agent Bryan Rust to a six-year extension last night for $30.75 million, an average annual value of $5.125. A move I found as surprising as it was quick, bold and decisive.
Although the cap hit certainly isn’t out of line for a player of Rust’s performance history and abilities, the term is. Especially when you consider the 30-year-old’s age, health history and playing style.
Due at least in part to his tenacious, driving, hell-for-leather approach, “Trusty Rusty” has never skated in more than 72 games during an NHL season.