NHL Update: Pittsburgh Penguins’ Bryan Rust suspended three games for hit on Vancouver Canucks’ Brock Boeser

The NHL made an official announcement about its disciplinary decision, which will restrict a key player from playing in forthcoming matches against the Pittsburgh Penguins. The NHL suspended forward Bryan Rust for three games because he executed an illegal headcheck against Vancouver Canucks winger Brock Boeser during the last moments of their Sunday Vancouver game.The NHL Department of Player Safety conducted a hearing, which provided the basis for their ruling. The league used the point of contact together with the resulting injury to decide on the suspension length, which marked the first time Rust had received supplemental discipline during his 12-year NHL career.

How did the NHL Department of Player Safety rule on the Bryan Rust hit?

The hit occurred during Vancouver's attempt to score an equalizing goal when they were losing 3-2. Rust executed a high blindside tackle that struck Boeser directly when he skated towards a loose puck near the Penguins' goal.

After the final buzzer ended the game, the Canucks' forward fell to the ice and needed to be helped to leave the rink.

The league imposed additional disciplinary actions after assessing the two-minute minor penalty that Rust received for an illegal head check during the game. The Department of Player Safety reached its decision about Boeser after he had been placed on injured reserve on Monday because he remained in concussion protocol.

Dan Muse, the head coach of the Penguins team, showed his disagreement with the suspension length because he believed that Rust should not receive a suspension based on his clean history and his reputation as a diligent and truthful player. Jake DeBrusk, Canucks forward, said during his postgame statements on Sunday night, "I think it’s a pretty dirty play, to be honest with you. But no one on the ice seemed to see it as well.

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In this sesesson Rust, who has been a regular on Sidney Crosby's wing, has scored 18 goals and 47 points, which makes him one of Pittsburgh's highest scoring players. His return to play is scheduled for February 3, when the team faces the New York Islanders.Pittsburgh continues to maintain its playoff position, but the three-game suspension of Rust presents a significant challenge to the team. The Vancouver team now concentrates on Boeser’s recovery because the league has established yet another rule that prohibits head contact during all game periods.