Rutger McGroarty admits he made a regretful mistake that led to his trade from the Winnipeg Jets
The Pittsburgh Penguins recently sent forward Rutger McGroarty down to the AHL to join the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. McGroarty had played three NHL games without recording any points and was at minus-one before being reassigned. Just before a matchup against his former team, the Winnipeg Jets, he was sent down, prompting Jets fans to taunt, chanting, "Where is Rutger?"
McGroarty was traded from the Jets to the Penguins in an offseason deal a move that stirred some controversy. Reports suggest that McGroarty requested a trade reportedly due to demands for guaranteed ice time & a role on the power play which led to tensions in the early trade discussions.
After being reassigned McGroarty opened up in an interview with the Pittsburgh Post Tribune admitting that he may have taken on more than he was ready for at the NHL level. He expressed that the AHL stint could give him the time he needs to develop his game fully allowing him to reflect on his approach. Now in his fifth game with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, he's skating on the top line but has yet to register a point, though he's getting the ice time to grow his skills.
«I feel like there's definitely opportunities for me to hold onto pucks and take pucks to the net or just create more by myself.»
According to his coach, McGroarty has shown more humility and effort in this new role, indicating a shift in mindset. Penguins GM Kyle Dubas highlighted the move as a chance for McGroarty to play regularly and develop rather than sit in the press box. This conditioning stint could help him return to the NHL better prepared, both as a player and a teammate.
