TRADE: Penguins to Acquire Rutger McGroarty from Jets

According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the Pittsburgh Penguins are acquiring forward Rutger McGroarty from the Winnipeg Jets in exchange for Brayden Yager.

Working on more, but hearing Rutger McGroarty is being traded from Winnipeg to Pittsburgh
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) August 22, 2024

Brayden Yager is going to the Jets https://t.co/9LeBEhL65A
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) August 22, 2024

McGroarty, 20, was one of the NHL's top trade candidates all summer, as the 2022 first-round pick made it clear that he did not wish to sign with the Jets. Now, after several weeks of trade rumors, the Lincoln, Nebraska native has found his new home with the Penguins.

This is certainly big news for the Penguins, as McGroarty is one of the top prospects in the sport and should have a bright future in the league.

McGroarty is coming off a big season with the University of Michigan, as he posted 16 goals to go along with 52 points in 36 games. This was after the skilled forward had 18 goals and 39 points in 39 games for the school as a freshman during the 2022-23 season.

However, the Penguins certainly gave up a notable player in this move, as Yager is also a former first-round pick with immense potential. The 5-foot-11 forward just had a strong season with the Moose Jaw Warriors of the WHL, as he posted 35 goals and 95 points in 57 games.

Yager is now one of the Jets' top prospects following this move. Getting him is an excellent move for Winnipeg.