Rust (lower body) told reporters he would return to the lineup against New Jersey on Thursday, barring any post-practice setbacks, Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

EDGE Analysis

Rust appears ready to suit back up without having missed any games, which would be a huge win for the banged up Pens. Once given the all clear, the winger figures to resume his top-six role as well as lining up on Pittsburgh's second power-play unit.