Rust scores hat trick, Penguins strike six times in third to win 9-2 over Canadiens [Video]

Bryan Rust scored a hat trick and added an assist as the Pittsburgh Penguins crushed the Montreal Canadiens 9-2 on Thursday night.

Rickard Rakell produced two goals and two assists, while Kris Letang added a goal and an assist for Pittsburgh (13-14-4).

Anthony Beauvillier, Matt Nieto and Blake Lizotte also scored in a six-goal third period as fans at Bell Centre booed the home team and left their seats early.

Sidney Crosby tallied three assists to reach 1,026 in his career and surpass Gordie Howe (1,023) for fifth most with one NHL franchise.

Tristan Jarry stopped 21 shots, bouncing back after allowing five goals in Pittsburgh’s 6-2 loss to Colorado on Tuesday. The Penguins won their sixth game in eight outings.

Nick Suzuki and Joel Armia replied for Montreal (11-15-3) as the Canadiens wrapped up a five-game homestand (3-2-0).

Sam Montembeault made 20 saves on 26 shots in his fifth …