Whether it's the Winnipeg Jets or any other NHL team, lying is exactly what they'll be doing if they guarantee prospect Rutger McGroarty a spot in the lineup, says Ken Campbell.

If the speculation is to be believed, the Winnipeg Jets are guilty of nothing more than being honest with 20-year-old prospect Rutger McGroarty. And for that, they're apparently being punished.

Word is from multiple outlets that the Jets and McGroarty's camp disagree on the best development for him, with the Jets not willing to guarantee a spot in the NHL lineup. It's speculated that McGroarty, on the other hand, feels he's ready to play in the NHL and can surpass the AHL. (McGroarty didn't attend Jets development camp, but GM Kevin Cheveldayoff and McGroarty haven't discussed the matter with reporters.)

Good for him. One option would be to sign a contract, go to camp and earn a job, just like every other prospect in the history of hockey has ever done. Because the reality is that if he's not ready to play in the NHL, it will become apparent and any assurances the Jets or any other team would make will immediately go out the window.

The Jets could lie to McGroarty to appease him. So could any other team that acquires his rights. But the bottom line is if Rutger McGroarty is good enough to play in the NHL, that's where he'll be. If not, he won't.

Here's more:

Get the latest news and trending stories right to your inbox by subscribing to The Hockey News newsletter here.