Rutger McGroarty Scouting Reports

The Winnipeg Jets first round pick - 14th overall / 2022 - Captained Team USA at the WJC
He was deployed in all situations and had a positive impact in every zone
McGroarty tied for 10th in tournament scoring with 5G-4A in 7GP
He played to his identity. He was hard to defend around the crease and determined along the boards extending plays.
His skating continues to improve. Combination of skill and will. High end competitor. Brings power, finesse, and hockey sense to check high end opponents if required.

The Jets first round selection in 2022 (14th). McGroarty is equal parts power and finesse. There was a time I was concerned about his open ice pace. He's never been a poor skater, but another gear was certainly required for both the college, and eventually, pro game.
McGroarty is the Captain for Team USA. He should slot into one of their top two lines. He is capable of being used in all situations. His impact is greatest in the offensive zone from the hash marks down, along the wall, and out front the net. The, now, 6'1 209lbs forward is hard to defend. He has quick mitts. McGroarty is efficient finding pucks in traffic via tips and rebounds.

3G-7A in ten game segment from end of January - Big Ten playoffs in March (2023). Used primarily at even strength and the power-play. He showed he is capable of penalty-killing at the college level this season as well - but has not been used as much in the role in the second half of the season. Big body net front. Finds quiet ice in the deep slot and around opponents net. Hard to defend when he leverages for space / creates screens (etc). His pace is average plus. He rarely transports the puck between the blue lines in transition but has the high end hockey sense to know how to make himself open for his line mates. 2-Way / Power / Top 6 possible

Has transitioned nicely to the college game.
Playing to his identity offensively as a big, strong forward who can beat goalies from in close and distance.
Skating has been a bit of a concern in the past but he is showing he can play quick and fast enough against older opponents in the NCAA.
Three zone detail has impressed. Willing to sacrifice his body on the PK / block shots

The Captain of Team USA 'U18'. There is much to like but also areas of his game that NI
He has a good stick and can make plays in the hard areas (coming off the boards and net front). Rutger brings a combination of power and playmaking. When physically engaged he gives opponents all they can handle. His skating will need to improve for the NHL game. He gets places but has to be pushing full throttle at all times to be effective. His off the puck play and overall 3 zone detail ranges. Projects to be a top 6 NHL point producing power forward