In that scenario, Pittsburgh, who finished three points out of a wild card spot, would've faced the New York Rangers in the first round if Pittsburgh had made it instead of the Washington Capitals, who got swept.
Ninja asked Rust if he thought the Pens could've at least won one game, unlike the Caps. Rust expressed confidence, saying he believes they would've won the series because the Pens match up well against the Rangers.
But, he did point out that their penalty kill would need to step up against the Rangers' power play, which, in Rust's words, "has been trash all year." So, special teams would've been a crucial factor in the series, according to him.
Now, let's add some context here. The Pens did put up a good fight in the last couple of weeks, but it hasn't been their best season. Some overhauling might be in order for them this Summer.
As for the outcome against the Rangers? Well, Rust isn't entirely convinced they would've come out on top. He admitted that while maybe they wouldn't have been swept, he doubts they would've won the series.