Elliotte Friedman: Winnipeg Jets looking to trade top prospect Rutger McGroarty

McGroarty, 20, was drafted in 2022 at the 14th overall rank by the Jets. In the past two seasons, he has been playing in the NCAA, with the University of Michigan, scoring 91 points in 75 games.

He is set to return to Michigan for another season, but after multiple reports suggested he'd sign a deal with the Jets after that season, a new development came to light that could put that scenario in jeopardy.

In the latest 32 Thoughts episode, Elliotte Friedman revealed that the Jets and McGroarty's side haven't been talking, and that the organization mentioned his name during trade calls.

With the Jets' need to revamp their blue line, including McGroarty in a trade for one or two defensemen could be a smart move for general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff.

Multiple teams in rebuilding could be interested in the prospect. However, they'll likely need to sacrifice a defenseman and/or picks to get him.

One organization that would make a lot of sense is the Montreal Canadiens. The Habs' fans are used to seeing GM Kent Hughes pull off a big trade during drafts, and it looks like it'll happen again this year. They have a lot of good defensemen that would fit well in Winnipeg, and both teams already made deals in the past.

With less than a week before the start of the NHL draft, it'll be interesting to follow the Winnipeg Jets as they look to bolster their blue line.

Updates will follow.