Penguins general manager Ron Hextall said that Rust exemplifies what it means to be a Pittsburgh Penguin, that he's developed into a versatile player capable of contributing in any situation, and that his leadership qualities and experience as a two-time Stanley Cup champion is an important piece of their team.
Not only has Rust started to help share in the responsibility of making sure that everyone lives up to the standard of excellence established by Sidney Crosby, Malkin and Letang - he is now set to join that trio as one of the longest-tenured Penguins in team history with this new deal.
"I think the opportunity to have that happen is cool," Rust said. "I think a lot of pride comes with being able to say you played with one organization for most, if not all, of your career. I think that definitely played into a little bit of a factor when making this decision."
He truly has thrived in Pittsburgh, and has only gotten better with each passing year. From a hockey perspective, Rust said that everybody - ownership, management, players, coaches, and staff - does a good job of making this an unbelievable place to play.
"We get treated so well; we get pretty much everything that we can want," Rust said. "The facilities are fantastic. All of that is above and beyond. Couldn't say any better things about the organization, and that definitely played a big factor."
That, along with his comfort level, is what Rust believes will help him continue to thrive. Sometimes, players tend to feel some extra pressure after signing big contracts like this one, but the day-at-a-time mindset that has served him well through the ups and downs that he's experienced to this point should carry him through.
"Over the years, there's been stretches that have been amazing, and there's been stretches that haven't been good," Rust said. "I've kind of learned to try and take each one of those as they come and learn from it. Take the good with the good and take the bad with the bad, and just keep chugging along."
Then from a life perspective, Bryan and Kelsey love the city of Pittsburgh itself. He is from Michigan, while she is from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, which are both manageable drives. Knowing that their families can come and visit any time, especially now that they have Hunter, is a wonderful added bonus to their situation.
"This place is definitely near and dear to our heart," Rust said. "Being able to continue to grow those away from the rink memories as well as trying to make a few more memories at the rink, I think just makes it that much more special."