Montreal Canadiens show interest in Winnipeg Jets prospect Rutger McGroarty

The Montreal Canadiens selected winger Ivan Demidov with the fifth overall pick in the 2024 Draft. While General Manager Kent Hughes seemed thrilled with the selection in an interview with Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, it is thought they had discussions with the Winnipeg Jets regarding the acquisition of Rutger McGroarty, who is dissatisfied with his current trajectory and would prefer a change of scenery.

After finishing his 36-game season with 16 goals, 36 assists, 52 points, and six penalty minutes, McGroarty, who is in his second season at the University of Michigan, feels he is ready to go to the next level in his development, which would require making the leap to the National Hockey League by any means necessary.

Although the Canadiens are excited about Demidov and grateful that he's available, it's unclear how serious the discussions were over McGroarty.

The Jets might still decide to cut their ties with McGroarty on the second draft day, but until then, we'll have to wait and watch.