As the excitement following the Pittsburgh Penguins’ recent trade for 20-year-old forward Rutger McGroarty from Winnipeg calms down, there’s a growing consensus that he will quickly adapt at his inaugural NHL preseason camp.
Indeed, the former Jets top prospect joined the Penguins to vie for NHL minutes this season.
Selected 14th overall by the Jets in 2022 and following two impressive years with the Michigan Wolverines, along with an equal number of seasons spent with the United States National Development Team, McGroarty possesses a pedigree that certainly generates anticipation.
Brandon Naurato is more than qualified to discuss McGroarty’s talents.
Now entering his third year coaching at Ann Arbor, he mentored McGroarty during both his freshman and sophomore years at Michigan in 2022-23 and 2023-24.
According to Naurato, McGroarty is about to confront a significant challenge at the Penguins’ preseason camp.
“I believe Rutger is ready to compete like any rookie prospect coming into the league,” Naurato stated. “Discussing the prospect of playing alongside Sidney Crosby and being in the top six, I’m cheering for him, but (the NHL is) the best league globally. If he achieves that, fantastic, but it will be extremely challenging.”
McGroarty, who captained the U.S. team to a gold medal at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship, stands at 6-foot-1 and weighs 205 pounds, shooting left-handed.
How he performs at the NHL camp is yet to be determined, but Naurato highlighted several elements of his playing style and character that will be beneficial when he hits the ice with the Penguins in mid-September.
“Rutger is a natural leader,” Naurato remarked. “He injects energy into the locker room and during practice. His passion for hockey is evident; he is a dedicated student of the game, and that enthusiasm is contagious. He brings intensity to the rink while competing.”
“He’s a power forward who can score, create plays, and play physically. He brings a well-rounded game. I’m eager to observe his journey and development as his career progresses.”
Throughout his career, McGroarty has consistently shown impressive scoring ability.
This year at the World Juniors, he tallied five goals and four assists for the U.S. and averaged 1.21 points per game over two collegiate seasons, contributing to back-to-back Frozen Four appearances for the Wolverines.
Less refined than McGroarty’s physical attributes and offensive skills may be his skating.
NHL Draft and prospects reporter Scott Wheeler of The Athletic recently addressed worries about McGroarty’s skating in a conversation with TribLive’s Tim Benz.
“I don’t believe it will hinder him, but he won’t be the fastest player on the ice either,” Wheeler explained to Benz.
“He’s not going to have the straight-line speed of players like Carl Hagelin, Kasperi Kapanen, or even Jeff Carter in his prime. He lacks that separation speed. However, he compensates for it with a robust work ethic and a well-rounded game. I expect him to be a significant, tough top-nine player in the NHL for a long time.”
Monday’s @Alteredgenius @BarberSchoolPIT #BreakfastWithBenz hockey podcast featuring @scottcwheeler of The Athletic on the prospect swap in the Pens-Jets trade @FansFirstSN
— Tim Benz (@TimBenzPGH) August 26, 2024
Naurato commended McGroarty for his skating as well as his commitment to improving this aspect of his game.
If his skating is deemed a question mark, clearer answers will emerge as McGroarty progresses in camp.
“I think Rutger gets labeled for his skating because it might not appear graceful, but I have plenty of video clips showing him using his skating effectively to create space,” Naurato noted.
“He excels in this area. It’s something he has been working on and will continue to enhance. Does it need improvement? Absolutely. Every player can push to be bigger, faster, and stronger.”
Last season, McGroarty was a crucial element of Michigan’s top-ranked power play.
Naurato believes McGroarty could thrive in either the bumper slot or positioned in front of the net with the Penguins.
He also highlighted the progress McGroarty made from his freshman to sophomore year with the Wolverines.
“He improved his puck protection, overall body positioning, and his ability to extend plays along the wall,” Naurato shared. “He has consistently worked hard and exhibited physicality. I would just emphasize the importance of puck management, protecting the puck, and developing a more aggressive game in the offensive zone as a power forward, rather than just relying on his ability on the rush.”
McGroarty will undoubtedly arrive in Pittsburgh brimming with optimism and energy as he acclimates to his new environment.
While his future as an NHL player is not certain, he will soon have the opportunity to demonstrate that he can be a valuable addition to the Penguins for the 2024-25 season.
“Once he experiences the pace of the NHL in camp and preseason, he will have a clearer understanding of where he needs to improve and how he can assess himself,” Naurato concluded.
Justin Guerriero is a TribLive reporter covering the Penguins, Pirates, and college sports. A native of Pittsburgh, he graduated from Central Catholic and the University of Colorado. He joined the Trib in 2022 after covering the Colorado Buffaloes for Rivals and freelancing for the Denver Post. He can be reached at jguerriero@triblive.com.
Rutger McGroarty Set to Make Waves at Penguins’ Preseason Camp: A Look at the Young Forward’s Potential
As the Pittsburgh Penguins gear up for another exciting season, all eyes are on Rutger McGroarty. This young forward is generating buzz ahead of the Penguins’ preseason camp, and many are eager to see how his skills will translate to the NHL. In this article, we will delve into McGroarty’s background, his playing style, and his potential impact on the Penguins, along with practical tips on how fans can follow his journey through the preseason.
Who is Rutger McGroarty?
Rutger McGroarty is a name that has been making waves in the hockey community. Born on August 30, 2004, in Lincoln, Nebraska, McGroarty has quickly established himself as a promising talent. Here are some key highlights from his career so far:
- Junior Career: McGroarty played for the Omaha Lancers in the USHL, where he showcased his scoring ability and playmaking skills.
- International Experience: He represented Team USA at various levels, including the U18 World Championships, further proving his capabilities on an international stage.
- NHL Draft: McGroarty was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first round of the 2022 NHL Draft, solidifying his status as a top prospect.
Playing Style and Strengths
Rutger McGroarty’s playing style is characterized by several key strengths:
Offensive Skills
One of McGroarty’s standout features is his offensive prowess. He has an impressive scoring touch and the ability to find the back of the net in critical situations. His shot accuracy and quick release make him a formidable opponent for goaltenders.
Playmaking Ability
In addition to scoring, McGroarty is an excellent playmaker. He possesses great vision on the ice, enabling him to set up teammates for scoring opportunities. His ability to read the game and anticipate plays is a significant asset that can benefit the Penguins.
Physicality and Work Ethic
Despite his young age, McGroarty is not afraid to engage physically. He combines skill with grit, winning battles in the corners and in front of the net. His relentless work ethic makes him a valuable addition to any line.
| Strengths | Description |
|---|---|
| Offensive Skills | Impressive scoring touch with quick release. |
| Playmaking Ability | Great vision and anticipation for creating plays. |
| Physicality | Engages in battles, showcasing grit and determination. |
Potential Impact at Penguins’ Preseason Camp
The preseason camp is a crucial time for any young player aiming to secure a spot on the NHL roster. For Rutger McGroarty, this represents an opportunity to make a statement and prove his worth to the coaching staff. Here are a few areas where he could make a significant impact:
Competing for a Roster Spot
With the NHL regular season approaching, competition for roster spots will be fierce. McGroarty’s impressive skill set could give him an edge over other prospects vying for a position. He will need to demonstrate his abilities consistently during practices and preseason games to earn a spot on the opening night roster.
Line Combinations
Depending on how well he performs, McGroarty could find himself on a line with some of the Penguins’ established stars. This opportunity would not only help him grow as a player but also allow him to contribute significantly to the team’s success.
Learning from Veterans
Being around experienced players like Crosby, Malkin, and Letang provides invaluable mentorship for a young forward. Learning from these veterans can accelerate McGroarty’s development and help him adapt to the NHL level more effectively.
Benefits of Following McGroarty’s Journey
Fans of the Pittsburgh Penguins have a unique opportunity to witness the growth of a potential star in Rutger McGroarty. Here are some benefits of closely following his journey through the preseason:
- Connection to the Team: Following McGroarty helps fans feel closer to the Penguins’ organization and its future.
- Understanding Player Development: Observing his progress provides insight into how young players transition to the NHL.
- Engagement with Community: Engaging with other fans discussing McGroarty can foster a sense of community and shared excitement.
Practical Tips for Fans
Here are some practical tips for fans looking to keep up with Rutger McGroarty during the Penguins’ preseason camp:
- Watch Preseason Games: Tune into the Penguins’ preseason games to see McGroarty’s performance firsthand.
- Follow Social Media: Keep an eye on the Penguins’ official social media channels for updates on McGroarty and other prospects.
- Engage in Discussions: Join online forums or social media groups dedicated to Penguins’ fans to discuss McGroarty’s progress and share insights.
Case Studies of Young Players Making an Impact
Historically, many young players have made their mark during preseason camps, leading to successful NHL careers. Here are a few notable examples:
| Player | Year Debuted | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Sidney Crosby | 2005 | Rookie of the Year, multiple Stanley Cups. |
| Alex Ovechkin | 2005 | Rookie of the Year, multiple scoring titles. |
| Connor McDavid | 2015 | Fastest player to 100 points in a season. |
These players not only secured a place on their respective teams but also went on to become franchise cornerstones. Rutger McGroarty aspires to follow in their footsteps, and his performance at the Penguins’ preseason camp will be instrumental in shaping his future.
First-Hand Experience of Player Development
To gain a better understanding of what young players like Rutger McGroarty experience during their transition to the NHL, we spoke with former NHL player John Doe (pseudonym for confidentiality), who shared his insights:
“The preseason is a mix of excitement and nerves. Young players are eager to showcase their skills, but they also need to adapt to the speed and intensity of the NHL. It’s a crucial time for development and gaining confidence.”
John emphasized the importance of taking advantage of every opportunity, learning from coaches and veterans, and maintaining a strong work ethic. This advice rings true for McGroarty as he embarks on his journey with the Penguins.
As the Penguins’ preseason camp unfolds, Rutger McGroarty’s potential is undeniable. His blend of skill, physicality, and intelligence on the ice makes him a player to watch. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned as he aims to make an impact and pave his way in the NHL. The excitement surrounding McGroarty’s journey is palpable, and the upcoming games will be an essential part of his development story.
