Rust's been clutch in small sample of Game 7s

As the Pittsburgh Penguins and Ottawa Senators gear up for a critical Game 7, the Penguins' most clutch performer awaits in the shadows.

No, it's not Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, or even Phil Kessel. The man to keep an eye on Thursday night? Bryan Rust.

The 25-year-old has played just 112 regular-season games over the last three seasons with the Penguins, but he's already demonstrating a knack for Game 7 dramatics.

Rust has played in just two Game 7s over the last two seasons - against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the conference finals last year and then against the Washington Capitals last round - and in each of those games, he scored the eventual winner.

The Penguins edged the Lightning by a slim 2-1 advantage. Rust scored both goals while playing just 11:12 - the third-lowest ice time among all Penguins forwards - and still managing five shots on goal.

Last round, Rust scored the game's opening goal, which held up as the winner as the Penguins skated to a 2-0 victory over Washington.

Of course, it's a very small sample size. In 39 playoff games, Rust has amassed 12 goals and 16 points, meaning one in four of his playoff goals have come in Game 7s. He's also scored two of his three career playoff game-winners in Game 7s.

Certain players live for the big moments, and while he's still just getting established, Rust appears to be that kind of player. Move over, Justin Williams.