Rust didn't return after leaving Tuesday's game with an undisclosed injury.

EDGE Analysis

After the game, coach Mike Sullivan told Root Sports Pittsburgh he expects to update Rust's status sometime Wednesday. The speedster totaled only 8:39 of ice time before leaving. He'd potted two goals in six games since returning from an extended absence due to an arm injury.

Rust scored Pittsburgh's only goal during Wednesday's loss to Chicago.

EDGE Analysis

While it's encouraging that Rust scored his first goal since returning from an arm injury March 24, he also lost his job on Sidney Crosby's flank mid-game. Rust's fantasy upside is limited to begin with, so being demoted to a third-line role makes him an underwhelming asset in the majority of seasonal leagues. He's still worth keeping an eye on, though. Pittsburgh is dealing with multiple injuries and has been shuffling its lines frequently as a result.

Rust was held without a point Friday, registering one block, two hits and four shots against the Islanders.

EDGE Analysis

He skated right on a line with Matt Cullen and Phil Kessel, totaling 16:19 - his third-highest ice-time in 51 games. Rust, who was one of six right-handed shots among Pittsburgh forwards, looks to continue playing as a top-six forward, especially on a depleted roster.

Rust (arm) will return to action for Friday's matchup with the Islanders.

EDGE Analysis

Rust makes his long-awaited return to the lineup and is slated to skate on Pittsburgh's second line alongside Phil Kessel and Matt Cullen. Despite averaging just 13:26 of ice time this season, Rust has managed a very respectable 25 points, a number he'll be looking to expand on Friday after missing the last 20 games.

Rust (arm) will be a game-time decision for Friday night's contest against the Islanders.

EDGE Analysis

It appears that it will take until warmups to determine if Rust can go after a lengthy 20-game absence. If the Penguins decide not to slot the Michigan native in Friday, he's a virtual lock to return to action Sunday against the Flyers.

Rust (arm) is no longer on injured reserve, according to the NHL media site.

EDGE Analysis

This marks a significant step toward returning for Rust who was described by coach Mike Sullivan as "getting close" prior to Thursday's tilt. A bevy of injuries in the Burgh have led to more subtractions than additions of late, so getting back the 24-year-old would be a welcome site. The team has yet to announce whether the winger will return to action Friday against the Islanders, but if he does; Josh Archibald figures to be the leading candidate to get bumped from the lineup.

Rust (arm) is "getting close" according to coach Mike Sullivan but will not be available Thursday against Ottawa.

EDGE Analysis

Rust was able to ditch the non-contact jersey at practice, per Sam Kasan of Pens Inside Scoop, which is an encouraging sign for the youngster. With a bevy of injuries, the Pens will need every body they can get back in order to make a deep postseason run.

Rust (arm) is skating with the team but has yet to take contact, DK Pittsburgh Sports reports.

EDGE Analysis

It looks like Rust won't miss the rest of the regular season, but gauging a return date is tough to do. Once he absorbs contact, then we'll get a better idea of when he might come back. Until then, it's safe to keep the speedster benched.

Rust (arm) is not expected back much before the start of the postseason, Jonathan Bombulie of Pittsburgh Tribune Review reports.

EDGE Analysis

The team did not provide a most specific timeline for Rust's return but given the level of energy and intensity he injects into the lineup, they no doubt want to get him back sooner rather than later. Fantasy owners in dynasty leagues may want to consider holding on to him for the future, but redraft league owners should probably look for other options to close out the year.

Rust (arm) will not travel with the team for their four-game road trip to Western Canada.

EDGE Analysis

The 2016 postseason hero hasn't played since Feb. 9, and with today's announcement, has effectively been ruled out until at least Mar. 15 when the Penguins return to Pennsylvania to play the Flyers in Philadelphia. Rust has been skating since Friday and will presumably continue to do so while he remains in Pittsburgh, which should put him in position to enter the lineup as soon as he's medically cleared.