Dallas Stars linked to potential trade for Penguins veteran forward

The Dallas Stars are looking ahead at the 2025-26 season with one clear goal in mind, and that is finding the final piece that pushes them from contender to champion.

With the market buzzing around possible moves, one interesting name has surfaced: veteran forward Bryan Rust of the Pittsburgh Penguins, a player who could be a natural fit in Dallas.

Rust, now a respected veteran with Stanley Cup experience, has been one of the few constants in Pittsburgh's lineup. He remains a valuable two-way forward with speed, scoring touch, and the ability to play in all situations.

For a Stars team that has leaned heavily on its top line, adding someone like Rust would give them flexibility and much-needed depth.

Bryan Rust trade talk puts Dallas Stars in intriguing position

Bleacher Report recently highlighted Rust as a player who could draw trade interest if the Penguins lean further into a retooling phase, and the Stars were one of the potential landing spots mentioned.

The fit makes sense, especially considering that Dallas has been searching for proven scoring beyond their core trio of Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz, and Mikko Rantanen.

Rust has also been praised for his playoff reliability, an area where Dallas has faced challenges in the past two years.

"He's the type of player who doesn't just show up in the regular season, he elevates when the games get tough," one NHL scout told The Athletic. "That's exactly the kind of depth piece a contender like Dallas should want."

According to Bleacher Report, the Penguins may consider moving one of their core veterans if the right deal emerges.

Rust, with his contract status and ability to contribute right away, is a player teams like Dallas would circle.

The biggest question is cost. The Stars have moved draft capital in recent years to stay competitive, and Jim Nill has shown caution about overpaying. But in a year where the Western Conference looks wide open, this could be the type of move that tips the balance.

Personally, I think a short-term swing on a player like Rust would be worth the gamble.