The Winnipeg Jets are sending 2022 first-round pick Rutger McGroarty to the Pittsburgh Penguins, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported Thursday.
McGroarty, 20, expressed reservations about his future with Winnipeg earlier this off-season, leading to general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff exploring trade options for the player he selected 14th overall just two summers ago.
The Nebraska native registered 52 points over 36 games at the University of Michigan last season but has not yet signed his entry-level contract.
Chicago’s Frank Nazar and Columbus’ Gavin Brindley, both teammates of McGroarty at Michigan last season, turned pro and suited up in NHL games following their collegiate stint in 2024. Those teams, of course, were well out of the playoff picture — unlike the Jets who finished third in the Central Division.
McGroarty announced his return to the Wolverines lineup for the 2024-25 season in April, with Winnipeg reported to have offered the forward a contract to turn pro around the same time.
McGroarty helped guide Team USA to a world junior championship title in 2024, scoring five goals and nine points through seven games at the tournament.
