Jets Prospect Rutger McGroarty Leaves Game on Stretcher

Winnipeg Jets prospect Rutger McGroarty was stretched off the ice on Friday night in Michigan.

Winnipeg Jets prospect Rutger McGroarty left Friday night's game with the University of Michigan Wolverines on a stretcher.

The Jets' 2022 first round pick was checked hard into the end boards in the third period by Reese Laubach and was unable to get back to his feet. 

McGroarty collided with the boards awkwardly, bouncing off his tailbone and lower back as he made contact with the ice and boards.

A stretcher was brought out onto the ice, where athletic trainer Brian Brewster and defenceman Jacob Truscott helped the 19-year-old out the Zamboni gate entrance at the end of the rink.

According to head coach Brandon Narauto, McGroarty was taken to the emergency room, but the full extent of his injury remains unknown. 

Through 12 games of the 2023-24 season, McGroarty has six goals and 18 points. 

Earlier in the game, Michigan lost fellow forward Dylan Duke on a concussion following a heavy hit from Chase McClane, as well as that of Mark Estapa. 

The Wolverines eventually won the game 6-4.