Rutger McGroarty Signs Entry-Level Deal
Rutger McGroarty, a forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins, has officially signed his entry-level deal with the team after being traded from the Winnipeg Jets last offseason. The skilled player, who was drafted in the first round of the 2022 NHL Draft, participated in eight games during his inaugural NHL season with the Penguins, where he notched one goal and accumulated three points, along with 12 hits.
Impressively, McGroarty found his scoring touch late in the season, earning all three of his points in the last four games in April, which helped him conclude the season strong.
Development in the AHL
During the majority of the 2024-25 season, McGroarty developed his skills with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in the American Hockey League (AHL). He demonstrated his offensive potential by scoring 14 goals and providing 25 assists, totaling 36 points over 60 games. At just 21 years old, McGroarty’s performance in the AHL indicates he may be poised for a breakout in the coming NHL season.
Standing at 6-foot-1, he possesses the size and skill set necessary to become a reliable top-six forward for Pittsburgh, raising hopes for an offensive surge as he integrates further into the NHL.
Looking Ahead to the 2025-26 Season
As the Penguins prepare for the 2025-26 season, the current roster situation could favor McGroarty, potentially allowing him to secure a position in the top six and contribute on the power play. Even if he lands a role within the top nine, his ability to provide crucial secondary scoring could prove invaluable for the team as they seek to enhance their offensive output.
Looking ahead, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how McGroarty’s season unfolds, as his promising trajectory injects excitement about his future contributions to the Penguins’ lineup.
Offseason Roster Changes
In addition to McGroarty’s development, the Penguins have been active during the offseason, bolstering their roster with several new signings, including Anthony Mantha, Matt Dumba, Justin Brazeau, Arturs Silovs, Connor Clifton, and Parker Wotherspoon. These additions signal a focused effort to deepen their lineup and address their needs moving forward.
Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
