Islanders Should Pursue Jets’ Prospect Rutger McGroarty in a Trade

On a recent episode of *32 Thoughts*, Elliotte Friedman discussed the potential trade of Winnipeg Jets’ prospect and University of Michigan star, Rutger McGroarty. Although it’s unlikely McGroarty will be traded, the New York Islanders should consider joining the pursuit.

College & NHL Signing Rules

The surprising trade of Cutter Gauthier, the Philadelphia Flyers’ fifth overall pick in 2022, to the Anaheim Ducks early in the 2023-24 season is a recent example of how college players can impact NHL team decisions. Gauthier didn’t want to sign with Philadelphia, prompting the trade. According to NHL collective bargaining agreement rules, drafted prospects can complete their college careers and then sign with any NHL team. This rule allowed Gauthier’s move, and a similar situation could unfold with McGroarty.

Who is Rutger McGroarty?

McGroarty was the 14th pick by the Jets in the 2022 NHL Draft. Over two seasons with the University of Michigan, he scored 34 goals and 91 points in 75 games. He also captained Team USA at the 2024 World Junior Championship, scoring five goals and nine points in seven games and winning gold. At 20 years old, McGroarty is a well-rounded prospect with strong playmaking, creativity, shooting skills, and work ethic. He is NHL-ready and could start the 2024-25 season in the league if traded.

Why the Islanders Should Target McGroarty

While many NHL teams will be interested in McGroarty, the Islanders could be an ideal fit. They need a left-handed, NHL-ready player who can play left wing and center, attributes McGroarty possesses. Additionally, his entry-level contract would be beneficial given the Islanders’ limited salary cap space.

If acquired, McGroarty could join the Islanders’ top six forwards, potentially playing on the second line with Brock Nelson and Kyle Palmieri or even on the top line with Mat Barzal and Bo Horvat. His playmaking ability could significantly enhance these lines, despite potential concerns about his skating speed.

Potential Trade Framework

The Islanders and Jets, both eliminated in the first round of the 2024 Playoffs and seeking roster changes, could be good trade partners. A possible trade package from the Islanders could start with the 21st pick in the 2024 Draft and include 23-year-old defenseman Samuel Bolduc, an AHL All-Star with potential to develop into a top-four NHL defenseman.

While predicting an exact trade framework is challenging, this proposal aligns with what the Flyers received for Gauthier. Given McGroarty’s current standing, such a trade could be beneficial for both teams, with Winnipeg potentially using the draft pick to bolster their roster further.

 Conclusion

Despite the unlikelihood of a trade, if McGroarty decides not to sign with Winnipeg, the Islanders should aggressively pursue him. His potential and fit with the team could make a significant impact.