Penguins' new acquisition Rutger McGroarty happy to join Pittsburgh despite no guaranteed job
The Pittsburgh Penguins are focusing on integrating young talent to revitalize their roster while balancing both short- and long-term goals.
Rutger McGroarty, their newest prospect, is eager to seize this opportunity and make a significant impact as the team looks to return to contention.
The 20-year-old forward said from Cranberry on Wednesday.
"For me, I've been promised a spot at the (Prospects Challenge), and that's about it. So, I feel like I'm going to get what I deserve, and I'm going to come ready to work for camp. I like where my game's at right now, but I'm just excited to get to camp and hopefully leave a good impression on them."
The Penguins are enthusiastic about McGroarty's potential and made a bold move by acquiring the 2022 14th overall pick from Winnipeg. While McGroarty appreciated his time with the Jets, he felt that a change was necessary for his growth.
"My agents talked to them, and then I talked to them. I wanted to be upfront and honest with them, and just tell them that I wasn't going to be signing with them. 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."
Shortly after the trade, McGroarty signed a three-year, entry-level contract with Pittsburgh, marking the end of his collegiate career at the University of Michigan. Over two seasons, he racked up an impressive 91 points in 75 games.
The Lincoln, Nebraska native, who relocated to Michigan at age 9 to pursue more challenging hockey opportunities, is excited about his new journey with the Penguins, despite the fond memories of Ann Arbor.
"I went to a Pirates game on Monday, like, the sports town atmosphere is unbelievable. Then just talking to Kyle and (Assistant GM Jason Spezza), I feel like they're just two incredible hockey minds with a great development path for me."
Penguins GM Kyle Dubas acknowledged the tough decision to include 2023 first-round pick Brayden Yager in the trade but believed that acquiring a player of McGroarty's caliber was in Pittsburgh's best interest. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound forward is known for his skill, hockey IQ, and strong compete level.
"I feel like I come to the rink every single day, work extremely hard and do everything with intent, and then hopefully drag other guys across the line with you and help them get better, McGroarty explained."
"Then I'm also a very vocal guy. I got a ton of energy. I'm always buzzing around. So hopefully, some of that is contagious energy that other guys can feed off of."
As the Penguins prepare for the upcoming season, McGroarty's determination and passion could make him a valuable asset in their pursuit of success. Only time will tell if he'll make the final roster, but his eagerness to prove himself suggests a bright future in Pittsburgh.
Source: Pittsburgh Penguins
Rutger McGroarty 'Fired Up' to Join Penguins
| POLL |
AOUT 28 | 76 ANSWERS Penguins' new acquisition Rutger McGroarty happy to join Pittsburgh despite no guaranteed job Are you excited to see Rutger McGroarty join the Pittsburgh Penguins this season? |
| Yes | 47 | 61.8 % |
| No | 29 | 38.2 % |
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