Last week, the Jets' 2022 first-round draft pick Rutger McGroarty He has been asking for a trade, and many expected a deal to be done as recently as a few days ago, with Winnipeg getting back their first-round pick in this year's draft. That hasn't happened yet, but with the first round starting in less than an hour, it's still likely he'll be moved.
The Wild are among the teams that have shown significant interest, according to The Athletic's Michael Russo. The Bruins are also in “ongoing discussions with Winnipeg regarding McGroarty,” Mike MacIntyre of the Winnipeg Free Press reported last night. MacIntyre added that the Blue Jackets, Islanders and Sabres have also been in contact but haven't used as strong language to express their interest.
Winnipeg selected McGroarty with the 14th pick in 2022, one pick later than the one Minnesota got this year (13th), so the idea of a one-for-one swap makes sense: Boston reacquired a first-round pick (25th) that went to Detroit and then Ottawa over the past 15 months, in return for sending the 2023 Vezina Trophy winner to the team. Linus Ullmark The Senators would likely need to add an additional pick or an equivalent asset in the form of a roster player or prospect to acquire McGroarty.
McGroarty, 20, was one of the best players in college hockey this season. During his sophomore season at Michigan, he finished in the top 10 on the NCAA overall scoring list with 52 points (16 goals, 36 assists) in 36 games. He was also a candidate for the Hobey Baker Award, given to the top college hockey player, and led the United States to a gold medal at the 2024 World Junior Championships, recording five goals and four assists in seven games.
But without a clear role for him on Winnipeg's roster next season, he decided to return to Michigan for his junior season rather than play for the AHL affiliate in Manitoba. He could, of course, turn pro after a trade and make his NHL debut with another team in the fall.
