The Penguins welcomed Bryan Rust back on home ice and saw an early spark from 18-year-old Ben Kindel, who scored his very first NHL goal. Yet the Rangers, coached by Mike Sullivan, surged ahead for a 6-1 win at Pittsburgh’s PPG Paints Arena.
Mike Sullivan-coached Rangers rout Penguins, 6-1

Key Takeaways:
- Bryan Rust returned to the Penguins’ lineup
- Ben Kindel, 18, scored his first NHL goal
- The final score was 6-1 in favor of the Rangers
- The matchup took place at PPG Paints Arena
- Coaching leadership from Mike Sullivan shaped the Rangers’ victory
The Return of Rust
Bryan Rust returned to the Penguins’ lineup on Saturday at PPG Paints Arena. Hopes were high that his presence would strengthen the team’s offensive capabilities and morale on home ice.
A Rookie’s Milestone
The Penguins found a brief bright spot when 18-year-old forward Ben Kindel recorded his very first NHL goal. As the youngest player on the ice, Kindel’s contribution underscored his potential and provided a glimpse of the team’s future.
Rangers’ Dominance
Despite the excitement in Pittsburgh over Rust’s return and Kindel’s milestone, the Rangers, led by Mike Sullivan, delivered a commanding performance. They surged ahead throughout the game, ultimately skating away with a decisive 6-1 final score, leaving the home crowd subdued.
Looking Ahead
The Penguins will need to regroup after this tough defeat and capitalize on the positives, including Rust’s renewed presence and Kindel’s emerging talent. Meanwhile, the Rangers’ statement victory solidifies their reputation as a formidable contender under Sullivan’s guidance.