The Toronto Maple Leafs may be running out of time to make a critical upgrade. With Sidney Crosby‘s Pittsburgh Penguins signaling a full-scale rebuild, veteran forwards Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell have reportedly been made available — and if GM Brad Treliving wants to bolster the lineup around Auston Matthews, the moment to strike is now.
It’s no secret that the Leafs need an additional weapon in the top six. Despite a solid core, the lack of secondary scoring depth has proven costly in recent playoff runs. Now, with proven names like Rust and Rakell on the trade block, Toronto has a rare opportunity to make a meaningful move before the 2025-26 campaign begins.
As reported by Daily Faceoff Live, the Penguins are preparing for a complete teardown, hoping to position themselves for the 2026 NHL Draft and the highly coveted Gavin McKenna. The Leafs must be decisive — Pittsburgh’s fire sale won’t last long.
Why are the Penguins shopping Rust and Rakell?
According to insider Matt Larkin, the Penguins are among the few teams openly committed to a rebuild and are willing to offload high-value veterans to get there. “They have chips that I think a lot of teams could use… Bryan Rust, Rickard Rakell — there are a few teams that still need a top-six forward. I think Winnipeg does. I think Toronto does.”
Sidney Crosby #87 of the Pittsburgh Penguins skates against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on April 11, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
Both Rust and Rakell offer distinct qualities. Rust, a long-time Penguin with championship pedigree, brings grit, versatility, and leadership. Rakell, meanwhile, remains one of the league’s most underappreciated offensive talents — posting 519 points across 13 seasons and 78 goals over his last three.
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Their departure would signal a full rebuild in Pittsburgh, especially with the front office reportedly chasing “McKenna-level talent” in the next draft cycle.
Could the Maple Leafs afford a deal with Pittsburgh?
Toronto may have the assets to make it happen. Young talents like Dennis Hildeby, William Villeneuve, or Nick Robertson could intrigue Kyle Dubas, who is familiar with their potential from his Maple Leafs tenure. With Pittsburgh seeking goaltending depth and prospects ready to step into bigger roles, a fit is not out of the question.
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Whether it’s Rust’s postseason experience and leadership or Rakell’s ability to elevate a second line, either forward could be the missing piece in Toronto’s pursuit of a championship. But time is of the essence — if Treliving wants to capitalize on Pittsburgh’s desperation, he must act before another contender steps in.
