After being acquired by the Pittsburgh Penguins from the Winnipeg Jets last off-season, Rutger McGroarty signed his entry-level contract with the Metropolitan Division club. The 2022 first-round pick appeared in his first eight NHL games last season with Pittsburgh, where he had one goal, three points, and 12 hits. All three of his points came across his final four NHL appearances with the Penguins in April, so he ended the year on a high note.

However, McGroarty spent the majority of the 2024-25 season down in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. Overall, the 21-year-old forward showed promise with the AHL squad, recording 14 goals, 25 assists, and 36 points in 60 games.

McGroarty had a nice start to his professional career, and there is no question that he is a clear breakout candidate heading into next season. The 6-foot-1 winger has all the tools to emerge as a legitimate top-six forward, and it would not be surprising in the slightest if we see his offense improve at the NHL level with Pittsburgh next season because of it.

McGroarty should also be put into a position to succeed. When looking at the Penguins' current roster, there is a real chance that he could get a chance in their top six and on their power play. Yet, even if he has a top-nine role with the Penguins, the prospect of him giving them some much-needed secondary offensive production should not be ruled out.

It will be fascinating to see what kind of season McGroarty can put together in 2025-26 from here, but it is hard not to feel excited about the youngster's future.

Penguins Still Have Big Roster Need To Address The <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/pittsburgh-penguins">Pittsburgh Penguins </a>have made multiple additions to their roster this off-season. Some of the players they brought in this summer include Anthony Mantha, Matt Dumba, Justin Brazeau, Arturs Silovs, Connor Clifton, and Parker Wotherspoon. Overall, the Penguins have added to their depth so far this summer. 

Exciting Penguins Forward Is Prime Breakout Candidate