Rutger McGroarty’s name has been in the news since last week.
The American prospect would like to be traded since he doesn’t want to play in Winnipeg, and we can expect him to change addresses between now and the draft.
McGroarty is a 6’1′, 200-pound forward who stands out because of his offensive talent. He did well last season in the NCAA (52 points in 36 games), and we’re talking about the Habs in his case because Kent Hughes has what it takes to dance with Kevin Cheveldayoff (GM ).
Even in Winnipeg, people are wondering whether the Habs might be in the running to acquire the 20-year-old’s services.
In fact, Scott Billeck of the Winnipeg Sun recently wrote about the possibility…
Justin’s brother, Morgan, plays in Winnipeg:
What would be your trade offer from the Habs to the Jets for Rutger McGroarty? https://t.co/Dn86JJVYqn pic.twitter.com/oWapwuaESG
– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) June 26, 2024
The player may want to be traded… but the Jets aren’t going to give him away either.
But where it makes some sense is when you look at the Jets’ defense and prospect bank.
Among the right-handed defensemen under contract with the organization are Dylan DeMelo, who just signed a new deal, Neal Pionk, who will be free as a bird next summer, Tyler Bauer, an AHL player, Elias Salomonsson, a fine prospect who hasn’t played a game in North America…
And that’s it.
The Jets have a need at this position, and even if Justin Barron hasn’t yet been able to establish himself as an impact defender in the National League, we’re still talking about a nice project because he’s still young at 22.
After all, he’s already got NHL experience and could have a role in the lineup as early as next year.
But the Jets want immediate help because the window of opportunity is still open, and that’s perhaps where it could put the brakes on talks between Hughes and Cheveldayoff.
Overtime
– He was very small!
Blast from the past: Photo I took of Cole Caufield five years ago today on Day 1 of his first development camp with the Canadiens after being selected in first round (15th overall) of 2019 NHL Draft. He has certainly filled out quite a bit since then. #Habs #HabsIO pic.twitter.com/FPrQilF3uu
– Stu Cowan (@StuCowan1) June 26, 2024
– Great read.
In conversation w/ Scott Mellanby, a charter member of 1993-94 @FlaPanthers #TimeToHunt. Scott’s heart is w/ #stlblues, for whom he now works, but he’s proud of his important role on and off Panthers ice and happy for team’s historic 1st Stanley Cup win https://t.co/Rc1CUC280S
– Dave Stubbs (@Dave_Stubbs) June 26, 2024
– It’s crazy too.
The Arizona Coyotes Cement Themselves As One Of The Most Storied Franchises In Hockey By Sweeping This Year’s Hall Of Fame Class https://t.co/sScfV8bkuX pic.twitter.com/V3sLxvPH2r
– Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) June 26, 2024
– Leon Draisaitl says he loves playing for the Oilers.
“I love being an Oiler more than anything”.
Leon Draisaitl answers questions regarding his contract status. pic.twitter.com/takPxnGpRR
– Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) June 26, 2024
– Decision time approaches in Edmonton. [BPM Sports]