Winnipeg Jets Kevin Cheveldayoff breaks silence on Rutger McGroarty trade

PUBLICATION

Ryan Hall
August 23, 2024 (9:58)

SHARE THIS STORY

On a recent interview with Winnipeg's Sports Talk Podcast, Winnipeg Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff revealed how former jets prospect Rutger McGroarty had unfolded who was then traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Cheveldayoff explains that the whole process began during this year's Draft Combine where McGroarty's agent send a text stating he wanted to meet and then to release a bombshell announcement that his client had no intention to sign with the Jets.

McGroarty's agent did not reveal the reasons why he did not want to sign with the team as Cheveldayoff tried to figure out what the problems were. McGroarty's only response but he gave the team was that he did not feel right as it began during development camp. It became clear that Cheveldayoff could not convince him to change his mind as it appeared they were ready to move on.

According to eliteprospects.com, the 20-year-old left winger who stands at six foot 1 and 205 lbs was drafted by The Jets in 2022, first round 14th overall. It stated that he is a physical forward along with a two-way centre and a cerebral tactician.

During his 2023-2024 season with the University of Michigan, McGroarty played 36 games, with 16 goals 36 assists for 52 points and was a + 17.

The Penguins ended up sending Brayden Yager in exchange for McGroarty In which Yager will be a good fit for the Jets. Shortly after the deal was made, McGroarty signed a three-year entry level contract with the Penguins.

Source: Eliteprospects.com

Rutger McGroarty Stats