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Rutger McGroarty finally addresses his Winnipeg Jets trade request
Rutger McGroarty, a new prospect for the Pittsburgh Penguins, explained why he requested a trade from the Winnipeg Jets. The 20-year-old forward, who was picked 14th overall by the Jets in 2022, felt that moving to Pittsburgh would better support his development. He respected the Jets but believed it was the right decision for his career.
“My agents talked to them, and then I talked to them." McGroarty said, "I wanted to be upfront and honest with them, and just tell them that I wasn't going to be signing with them,” McGroarty said per NHL.com
“I got nothing but respect for those guys. They handled it with a lot of class, and I wish them nothing but the best. But as I said, I'm fired up to get started here now.”
The Pittsburgh Penguins traded Brayden Yager to the Winnipeg Jets in exchange for McGroarty. He signed a three-year contract with the Penguins, ending his time at the University of Michigan. He's excited to prove himself at training camp and understands he has to earn his place on the team.
McGroarty is eager to contribute to the Penguins and is motivated by the chance to play alongside veterans like Sidney Crosby. He loves winning and is ready to work hard every day to help the team succeed.
Pittsburgh Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas on signing Rutger McGroarty
Pittsburgh Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas said that it was a tough decision because they highly valued Yager. However, he believes Rutger McGroarty's skills, leadership and competitiveness make the trade worth it.
“We had a difficult decision to make with this trade because we hold Brayden Yager in such a high regard as a person and prospect. After much consideration, we decided that the opportunity to add Rutger McGroarty was ultimately in the best interest of the Penguins," Dubas said per NHL.com
"Rutger possesses the combination of ability, leadership and competitiveness that the Penguins need to achieve our goals in the short and long run."
McGroarty, 20, played two seasons at the University of Michigan, scoring 34 goals and 91 points in 75 games. Last season, he ranked second on his team with 36 assists and 52 points.
Before college, McGroarty was a part of the U.S. National Team Development Program. He led the Under-18 team in goals and served as captain.
Internationally, Rutger McGroarty captained Team USA to a gold medal at the 2024 World Junior Championship. He also won silver at the 2022 Under-18 World Championship and bronze at the 2023 World Junior Championship.
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