Penguins send Rutger McGroarty back down to the minors after underwhelming start

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Axel Williams
October 16, 2024 (4:02 PM)

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Rutger McGroarty came into the Pittsburgh Penguins season with his expectations seeing as though he has previously done everything he could to get traded off of the Winnipeg Jets.

McGroarty was not in a lot of fans' good graces and there were certainly some folks out there praying on his downfall. However, there were just as many Penguins fans hoping that he could have some sort of season to remember. Unfortunately, the start to his season has not been fantastic. In the first three games of the year, he has yet to register a single point.

Today, the Pittsburgh Penguins made a huge decision regarding McGroarty and his development. The team has assigned him to Wilkes-Barre Scranton of the American Hockey League. It is here where the Penguins will hope for him to gain some valuable experience.

Overall, it is quite hard to transition from the college game to the NHL. Some players need more time to develop, and the AHL most certainly provides that. Only time will tell whether or not McGroarty will get back into the Penguins lineup this season.

When the year started, there was a belief that he would be sent down to the minors before the first game. However, the team decided against it and gave him a chance. Had he produced offensively, he would still be with the Pens. For now, it should just serve as motivation to get better.

Do you believe that Rutger McGroarty can figure things out and become a bonafide success in the NHL? Let us know in the poll down below and stay tuned to Hockey Unplugged for the latest news and updates from around the hockey world. We will continue to keep you informed on all of your favorite players and teams.