Penguins, Rust agree to 6-year extension worth $30.75M

One of the top pending unrestricted free-agent forwards won't be hitting the open market.

The Pittsburgh Penguins and winger Bryan Rust agreed to a six-year contract extension that carries an average annual value of $5.125 million.

"Bryan exemplifies what it means to be a Pittsburgh Penguin," general manager Ron Hextall said. "Since being drafted by Pittsburgh, he has developed into a versatile player and leader on our team, capable of contributing in any situation. His leadership qualities and experience as a two-time Stanley Cup champion is an important piece of our team."

Rust recorded a career-high 58 points last season. He's averaged 35 goals and 40 assists per 82 games over the last three campaigns while primarily riding shotgun with Sidney Crosby.

Pittsburgh drafted Rust in the third round in 2010.

The 30-year-old was one of three big pending UFAs for the Penguins this offseason along with franchise cornerstones Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang.

The Penguins now project to have approximately $24 million in cap space this summer with a roster of only 15 players.