Beside the fact that it’s very hard to see these two teams making a trade. I find it hard to believe when they said top 6 player Rust would qualify. He bounces back and forth from 40-50 point seasons which is fine, but can’t really be all that appealing when you’re talking about a contract that has 5+ years on it at 5m+. Capitals certainly can’t ask for much here, but they’d probably be better off just waiting for a different offer given their future uncertainty

No he wouldn't. He's made it clear on multiple occasions he's retiring a Penguin.

I can see Jeff might not wave but for a 4 hr drive it is close enough between ridding the bench with pens or playing he might do it. Also for rust not being a top 6 yes I know 2 different styles of playing but he scores more than Tom Wilson. Wilson just inked for more money.

Not taking on that Rust contract

Without even getting into the trade - both Rust and Carter have NMCs. Having them both waive for a team that most likely finishes lower in the standings is probably like lottery odds.

As for the fairness of the actual trade - I'd say it's light. I don't think Carter or Rust carry much value to the Caps right now - would need to add picks/prospects

That Wilson contract probably won’t age great. But Wilson’s value isn’t necessarily all in point production. His physicality is 50% of his value. Other teams have to be aware of him and he scores at that point still. My question I guess is what is Rusts redeeming quality that makes him desirable for teams? He’s always seemed like a guy who was just capable of playing with higher end talent and more so being a passenger on the line. That’s more than great at a low cap hit, but for substantial money if you’re making a move for a guy you want it to address a need you have. I personally just don’t see it with Rust. Again not saying he’s a bad player by any means. But he’s being paid more than fair currently, hard to imagine he’d be appealing for a team in possible transition.

For the sake of conversation as I could be totally wrong. What are Rusts strengths? Why would a team target him and go he’d fit great in our top 6?

Good speed plays both sides of the ice can play on pk or pp on pk can score a shorty cause his speed and shot.

Need retention on rust for it to work and carter probably wouldn’t waive anyway.

Also can’t see either team picking up the phone for the other lol.

Me too I don't see this happening at all Trading in division but. I was wondering if it fair also kuz might just pack up his bags and go back home to Russia. Then you would lose him for nothing. I would not retain on rust. Like I said he is cheaper than Wilson and scores more. But they play differently and I get that.

Yea that's not happening. Much rather just keep Kuzy anyways