Rust exited the NHL's COVID-19 protocols Sunday, per Mike DeFabo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

EDGE Analysis

Rust has missed the last four games whilst in the NHL's COVID-19 protocols. The 29-year-old was activated off injured reserve on Jan. 2 after he recovered from a lower-body injury. He has averaged 18:33 of ice time -- 2:19 during the man advantage -- and has tallied 11 points over three appearances since returning from IR. Kasperi Kapanen is likely to see a reduced role upon Rust's return.