Report: Red Wings interested in Penguins forward

The Detroit Red Wings boast a roster that already includes several players with ties to Michigan or previous local connections before joining the team. Considering this affinity for homegrown talent, it's not out of the realm of possibility for them to be interested in adding another player with Michigan ties.

According to Josh Yohe of The Athletic, the Red Wings have interest in forward Bryan Rust, who is from the Detroit suburb of Pontiac. However, his speculation is that his potential arrival in the Motor City may not come at the upcoming NHL Trade Deadline, but rather in the offseason. 

He writes: 

"The Detroit Red Wings have shown the most interest in Rust, perhaps not surprisingly. Rust is a Michigan native, and the young Red Wings are on the verge of making their long-awaited return to the postseason. Rust, a wonderful two-way player whose trademark speed remains, would be a veteran presence who could make the Red Wings better this spring.

However, Dubas did not ask Rust to waive his no-movement clause. It remains to be seen if Rust will remain in Pittsburgh for the entirety of his contract, but don’t expect him to be dealt this week.

The Penguins greatly value him, and, while much is rightfully made about Crosby’s preference for Guentzel as a linemate, the same can be said of Rust." 

Rust currently has a cap hit of $5.125 million on his contract that runs through 2028. He's tallied 18 goals and 18 assists in the 42 games that he's skated in for the Penguins this season, and also has 162 goals and 190 assists in a total of 547 career NHL games that includes a pair of Stanley Cup championships in 2016 and 2017. 

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