Bryan Rust Suspended Three Games For Illegal Check

Originally posted on Inside The Rink | By Connor Green | Last updated Jan 28, 2026 2:52 AM ET

Today, the NHL Department of Player Safety has laid out its 8th suspension of the season to Bryan Rust. Rust has been suspended for three games for an illegal check to the head of Vancouver Canucks forward, Brock Boeser.

During the play, Boeser was in front of the net, battling for a puck. While Bryan Rust came across with a check that landed on Boeser’s head. Boeser has since been placed on Injured Reserve by the Canucks.

Pittsburgh’s Bryan Rust has been suspended for three games for an illegal check to the head against Vancouver’s Brock Boeser. https://t.co/qzLChro3Xn
— NHL Player Safety (@NHLPlayerSafety) January 27, 2026

Boeser has skated in 50 games for the struggling Vancouver team, compiling 25 points and -30.

Rust will miss games against the Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers, and Ottawa Senators. For Pittsburgh, the loss isn’t insignificant. Rust plays over 20 minutes per game for the Penguins and has 39 points in 47 games. For a team pushing to keep their playoff position prior to the Olympic Break, the suspension is a tough loss.

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This article first appeared on Inside The Rink and was syndicated with permission.

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