There was media speculation the Winnipeg Jets would trade Nikolaj Ehlers and Rutger McGroarty during the NHL draft, but they didn't. What could come next?

Trade rumors swirled about Winnipeg Jets winger Nikolaj Ehlers and top prospect Rutger McGroarty heading into the 2024 NHL draft. 

It was believed the 28-year-old Ehlers, with a year left on his contract, would be peddled for a top-four defenseman during the draft or heading into free agency on July 1.

Meanwhile, the Jets were said to be shopping the 20-year-old McGroarty as he reportedly no longer saw his path to the NHL running through Winnipeg. Before the draft, TSN's Darren Dreger reported they sought a first-round pick, a prospect or a young NHL player.

The Athletic's Murat Ates indicated the Jets tried hard to move McGroarty during the draft's opening round. He claimed the Minnesota Wild offered up their first-rounder (13th overall) but withdrew it once defenseman Zeev Buium became available.

Ehlers and McGroarty remained with the Jets once the dust settled from the draft and the start of free agency. However, interested clubs could revisit their interest now that the free-agent pool has been depleted. Ates believes McGroarty's stock remains high despite his wish to move on from the Jets.

The Hockey News' Stefen Rosner suggested both players could help the New York Islanders address their need for more offense, but that's if McGroarty doesn't need development in the AHL. The New York Post's Ethan Sears also noted the Jets aren't in any rush to move either guy, pointing out the remaining year on Ehlers' contract and their control over McGroarty's rights. 

Ehlers' $6-million cap hit would be difficult for the cap-strapped Islanders to take on. It would have to be a dollar-in, dollar-out deal.

The Jets are in the market for a top-four defenseman. Ryan Pulock ($6.15-million cap hit) or Adam Pelech ($5.75 million) would fit the bill cap-wise but both carry full no-trade clauses.

McGroarty would have to sign an entry-level contract once acquired by the Isles. He has scoring potential and is more affordable than Ehlers but lacks NHL experience. 

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