The Penguins have assigned forward Rutger McGroarty to their Wilkes-Barre/Scranton farm club today.
Raise your hand if you didn’t see this one coming.
I’m being facetious, of course. It seemed pretty much a given there wouldn’t be a roster spot for the high-profile rookie once Bryan Rust came off IR. Or at least not one that Mike Sullivan and coaching staff were willing to commit to (cough…next to Sidney Crosby).
The fact that the 20-year-old, 200-pounder could be assigned to the Baby Pens without passing through waivers? Pretty much greased the skids.
Truth be told, this might be the best thing for the Lincoln, Nebraska native. McGroarty’s sure to get plenty of prime ice time with the Baby Pens in all sorts of situations. He’ll get a chance to hone his game away from the glare of NHL spotlights, not to mention sans the scrutiny of an expectant black-and-gold fan base.
Too, Baby Pens skipper Kirk MacDonald has a good reputation for developing young talent.
In a way, Rutger will be following in the skate tracks of fellow Nebraskan and former Pens sniper Jake Guenztel, who spent a healthy chunk of time in the AHL at the outset of his pro career.
If all goes according to plan? I suspect it won’t be too long before McGroarty resurfaces in the ‘Burgh sporting his iconic No. 2 jersey.
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Hey Rick,
Less than a month ago, the friends of Mike Sullivan were just saying "See, Mike Sullivan doesn't hate prospects, he is starting the season off with Rutger McGroarty and Joel Blomqvist on the opening night roster!". However, everyone with eyes and something other than a cabbage between their shoulders knew that as soon as Rust, Lizotte, and Nedjlkovic were off IR McGroarty and Blomqvist would be banished.
This is why my expectations for this team are so low, Sullivan is beyond predictable.