Rutger McGroarty shared his thoughts with reporters on Wednesday, offering insights into his mindset after signing with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
One of the key questions surrounding McGroarty's role on the 2024-25 roster is where he might fit in come October.
Many, including those following the team closely, are eyeing the possibility of him joining Sidney Crosby's line.
Rutger McGroarty is here and happy to be part of the Penguins organization.
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) August 28, 2024
McGroarty on signing with Pittsburgh: "I feel like everything's right here. The development path, the veteran guys that they have here, the organization they have here, and the town as well." pic.twitter.com/cD1kWfJwd3
When asked specifically about his potential position, McGroarty addressed whether he would play left or right wing, stating:
"I can play both. I'm comfortable on either side. Throughout my career at Michigan, I've played both left and right wing. At the end of the day, it's the same game. You're making the same plays."Rutger McGroarty
McGroarty also spoke highly of Sidney Crosby, expressing his admiration for the Penguins' captain:
"Playing with Sidney Crosby — he's obviously the best player in the world. I've grown up watching him play."Rutger McGroarty
McGroarty appears eager to begin his journey with the Penguins, though so far, he has only been confirmed for participation in the upcoming 2024 Prospects Challenge, set to kick off on September 23, 2024.
Beyond that, he'll need to have a strong training camp, but it would be surprising if he doesn't make the lineup, even if he starts in the bottom six.
It might make more sense for him to begin in the top six, especially considering Drew O'Connor's more significant impact in the bottom six, despite his time on the Crosby line during the 2023-24 season.
Another factor working in McGroarty's favor is his reputation for leadership. He touched on this during the press conference, stating:
"Leadership means everything to me. I feel like it's a quality I've had since a very young age. Growing up in a USHL locker room made me more mature. I believe in leading by example and being vocal.Rutger McGroarty
I come to the rink every day, work extremely hard, and do everything with intent. Hopefully, that helps pull other guys along and make them better."
With his leadership skills, work ethic, and determination to contribute at the NHL level, Rutger McGroarty's arrival couldn't have come at a better time.
As the season approaches, the Penguins will need players like McGroarty to help turn things around. Even for the most skeptical fans, his addition offers a glimmer of hope that not all is lost.
Until it is, let's see how this unfolds from here.