Earlier this week, it was reported that Winnipeg Jets prospect and 2022 14th overall draft pick, Rutger McGroarty, was unhappy with how the Jets have handled him. McGroarty and his camp have expressed interest in playing elsewhere. Additionally, in June, reports surfaced that left-wing Nikolaj Ehlers also wanted a change of scenery for next season.
These developments have sparked rumors that the Jets and the Chicago Blackhawks are discussing a blockbuster trade. The trade would send McGroarty and Ehlers to Chicago in exchange for defenseman Connor Murphy, forward Lukas Reichel, and a 2024 first-round pick.
The Blackhawks are looking for support for sophomore Connor Bedard, but the question is whether the Jets would be giving up too much. Ehlers is an established NHL player, and McGroarty is nearly ready for the big leagues. On the other hand, Murphy and Reichel have great potential, and the first-round pick in question is the second overall pick.
The Jets need to decide if they are in win-now mode or if they can afford to wait for these prospects to develop. Ehlers has proven his talent, and McGroarty seems ready to become a full-time NHL player this season. This trade could have significant implications for both teams, but that's the unpredictable nature of professional hockey.
