 On December 5, 2016, Rust first recorded his first career hat-trick in an 8–5 win over the Ottawa Senators.On April 20, 2017, Rust scored two pivotal goals, including the game-winner, in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference First Round meeting between the Penguins and the Blue Jackets.The Penguins ultimately won the game 5–2, and the series 4–1.