The Winnipeg Jets are considering trading Rutger McGroarty.
Elliotte Friedman and Jeff Marek revealed that the Jets’ prospect has been mentioned in recent trade discussions. According to Murat Ates from The Athletic, a league source said McGroarty feels he has a better chance of making it to the NHL with another team. Drafted 14th overall in 2022, just after Frank Nazar, McGroarty committed to the University of Michigan for his junior year on April 16th while Nazar and Gavin Brindley signed entry-level contracts.
McGroarty and the Jets disagree on his readiness for the NHL. He believes he’s ready now, but Winnipeg isn’t guaranteeing him playing time. This led him to pass on an entry-level contract after the NCAA season ended in 2023-24. His stats back up his confidence: with 16 goals and 52 points in 36 games last season, he was second on his team and ninth nationwide . Despite this, there’s no certainty he’d make the Jets’ roster immediately, though they might need cost-effective players if they lose Nikolaj Ehlers and Tyler Toffoli this summer.
Trade Talks:
With some top forwards possibly leaving soon, Winnipeg might trade McGroarty for experienced players who can help right away. Even so, they hold most of the power in any trade since McGroarty needs two more NCAA seasons before becoming a free agent. Fans might wonder if holding onto him could fix things between them.
Last summer seemed like Mark Scheifele and Connor Hellebuyck were leaving too until they signed long-term deals later on. Could history repeat itself?
What do you think about this situation?
