Penguins GM Kyle Dubas prefers Rutger McGroarty over Brayden Yager

Rutger McGroarty, a promising young talent, has been at the center of attention after being traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins from the Winnipeg Jets in a huge move that has sent shockwaves across the hockey world.

McGroarty's exceptional skills and impressive track record in his junior career have attracted widespread recognition. As one of the Jets' top forward prospects, he demonstrated his great ability on the ice, ranking ninth among NCAA players with an outstanding 52 points (16 goals and 36 assists) during his sophomore season at the University of Michigan. Furthermore, at the age of 20, he not only contributed nine points (five goals and four assists) but also served as the captain when the United States secured the gold medal at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship (WJC).

Kyle Dubas, the general manager of the Pittsburgh Penguins, expressed the team's reasoning in making the trade, acknowledging Brayden Yager as both an exceptional person and a fantastic NHL prospect.

McGroarty was chosen by Winnipeg as the 14th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft. Yager, on the other hand, is a 19-year-old forward, who was selected by Pittsburgh with the 14th pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. In the previous season, Yager excelled with 95 points (35 goals, 60 assists) in 57 games while playing for Moose Jaw in the Western Hockey League (WHL).

Brayden Yager made a big impact representing Canada at the 2024 WJC, contributing five points (two goals, three assists) in five games. Following this, he participated in the 2024 World Junior Summer Showcase, a key event for the 2025 WJC. The 2025 WJC is scheduled to take place in Ottawa, Ontario from December 26th to January 5th, 2025.

Furthermore, Brayden Yager's potential was recognized by the Penguins, when they signed him to a three-year, entry-level contract on July 24. It is anticipated that he will have the opportunity to play at some point with the Jets in the NHL next season.

Kyle Dubas has shown a strong preference for Rutger McGroarty over Brayden Yager. However, it is clear that both players have promising NHL careers ahead of them. The Jets have no doubt made a wise choice in acquiring Yager.

Source:
Chris Johnston on X

Source: HockeyDB
Rutger McGroarty Stats

Source: Elite Prospects
Brayden Yager Stats