Rutger McGroarty's trade benefits a Habs Prospect
The Winnipeg Jets announced a trade last Thursday involving a significant part of their future, which has impacted a young player from the Montreal Canadiens.
If you've been following hockey over the past few weeks, forward Rutger McGroarty had requested a trade from the Jets, as he wanted nothing to do with playing in Manitoba. The Pittsburgh Penguins traded prospect Brayden Yager for the services of McGroarty. Two talented young players were exchanged.
While it's difficult to determine with certainty who won this trade, it has been revealed that it directly affects the Canadiens' 2024 first-round pick, Michael Hage.
Hage, the 21st overall pick in the 2024 draft by the Canadiens, will be playing with the University of Michigan in the NCAA next year.
Rutger McGroarty signs with the Penguins and leaves the NCAA: He clears the way for Michael Hage
As you might have guessed, McGroarty is not expected to return to Michigan, as he is likely to make the Penguins' lineup in 2024-2025.
His move to the professional ranks has fully opened the door for Michael Hage at the University of Michigan. He will climb the ranks faster within a program known for developing high-level hockey players.
With Rutger McGroarty's presence, the window of opportunity for an offensive role seemed rather limited. Michael Hage would likely have played on the second or even third line. Now, he is assured of a top-6 role in 2024-2025.
According to some experts who closely follow NCAA activities, the trade and Rutger McGroarty's signing with Pittsburgh should allow Michael Hage to secure a spot on the first line and the top power-play unit at Michigan.
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At 18 years old, Michael Hage stands at an impressive 6 feet 1 inch and weighs 190 pounds. In the 2023-2024 season, he tallied 75 points in 54 games last season with the Chicago Steel in the USHL.
Canadiens fans are excited to see him play in the NCAA this year.
Source: DansLesCoulisses
McGroarty chez les pros : Michael Hage risque d'avoir un plus grand rôle à Michigan University
Credit: Marqueur
Transaction conclue à Winnipeg: une excellente nouvelle vient de tomber pour Michael Hage du Canadien
| POLL | ||
How many points will Michael Hage score in his first NCAA season? | ||
| Less than 20 points | 4 | 2.3 % |
| 20 to 29 points | 33 | 18.8 % |
| 30 to 39 points | 88 | 50 % |
| 40 points or over | 51 | 29 % |
| List of polls | ||
