What Happened
The Pittsburgh Penguins announced on November 1, 2026, that forward Rutger McGroarty was reassigned to the AHL's Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. Pittsburgh did not make a corresponding move, leaving the club with one open roster spot. McGroarty, a former 14th overall pick by the Winnipeg Jets, has seen limited NHL time since debuting with the Penguins in 2024-25.
Key Details
- McGroarty has four goals and nine points in 34 NHL games with a -3 rating and 12:41 average ice time.
- With Wilkes-Barre/Scranton in his first AHL season, he had 14 goals and 39 points in 60 games.
- In his second AHL season, he recorded 10 goals and 34 points in 30 games with a +10 rating.
- He added four goals and nine points in 15 AHL playoff games.
- Pittsburgh acquired McGroarty from Winnipeg for Brayden Yager after he declined to sign with the Jets.
- The Penguins have dealt with multiple injuries in the first month of 2026-27 and are open to trading veterans.
What It Means
McGroarty has produced at a higher rate in the AHL than in his NHL appearances, and the reassignment gives him regular minutes with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Pittsburgh's injury situation and openness to trading veterans could create another NHL opportunity for him, according to Pro Hockey Rumors.
What's Next
McGroarty is likely to be among the first forwards recalled if Pittsburgh makes a trade or suffers another injury, according to Pro Hockey Rumors. The Penguins currently have one open roster spot.