Potential NY Islanders trade target shipped to a division rival

Heading into the off-season, following another first-round playoff exit, the NY Islanders had goals of acquiring another top-6 winger and improving their prospect pool.

Both of these goals were accomplished by day one of free agency, signing Anthony Duclair to a 4-year, $3.5M AAV contract, along with having a strong draft, selecting Cole Eiserman and Kamil Bednarik in the first two rounds - arguably the organization's two highest rated prospects.

But early into the summer, there were rumors that the Islanders may have been able to improve in both these categories with a single trade. 

McGroarty would have added youth and potential to the Islanders

It became known around the league that Winnipeg Jets prospect Rutger McGroarty did not wish to sign with the Jets and had requested a trade.

Finishing his sophomore season at the University of Michigan, McGroarty was among the NCAA’s top players, finishing ninth in the nation in points with 52 (16 G, 36 A) in 36 games. 

McGroarty didn’t see an immediate path to the NHL within the Jets’ organization, causing GMs across the league to ring Winnipeg GM Kevin Cheveldayoff to inquire about how they could acquire the 20-year-old winger.

The Pittsburgh Penguins ultimately won the McGroarty sweepstakes today, trading for the Lincoln, NE native, giving up one of their top prospects in return, Brayden Yager. Yager, a 19-year-old who played for the Moose Jaw Warriors of the WHL last season, finished his most recent junior campaign with 95 points (35 G, 60 A).

While McGroarty would have been a fantastic addition to the Islanders roster, the Jets would likely have wanted 2024 first-round pick Cole Eiserman in return, which Lou Lamoriello may not have been willing to part with so quickly.

Only a few hours after being traded, McGraorty has signed his ELC with the Penguins and will likely be seeing the Islanders when the teams first meet this season on November 4th.