RUTGER McGROARTY

2025-05-07

Scout: James Iacovone

Skating:

Still a work in progress. Straight line speed is fine but his stride remains somewhat awkward.

Passing/Handling:

Strong pucks skills and makes frequent plays in tight spaces. Good vision which allows him to find teammates, particularly in the offensive zone.

Shooting:

Big powerful and accurate shot. His ability to find open ice combined with his quick release should provide plenty of goals.

IQ (Vision, Anticipation, Panic/Poise):

High hockey IQ. Makes smart decisions under pressure. Anticipates plays both offensively and defensively which makes up for sub par skating.

Forechecking:

Aggressive forechecker. Uses size and anticipation to pressure opponents and create turnovers.

Defense:

Responsible in own end. Backchecks and positions himself well which leads to breaking up opposition passes.

Best Asset:

Very competitive and good offensive instincts.

Biggest Concern:

Skating

Top Tier/Role Potential:

Tier 3 - Middle six player who could get time on special teams.

Justification for Top Tier Assessment:

Likely 40-50 point scorer with average BASH.

50th Percentile Tier/Role:

Justification for 50th Percentile Tier Assessment:

n/a

Stylistic Comparable:

TJ Oshie

2024-08-19

Scout: Patrick Ploch

Skating:

Average to slightly above average. I believe it has improved somewhat since his draft year. He isn't the swiftest skates hard and keeps moving on the cycle.

Passing/Handling:

McGroarty's passing and handling are a strength. He is able to hold onto the puck in traffic. He can make quick and accurate passes or pause to find the best pass.

Shooting:

He has a plus shot that is most lethal in close to the net where he scores a lot of his goals.

IQ (Vision, Anticipation, Panic/Poise):

McGroarty has a very good hockey IQ. He puts it to good use to get back on defense at the right time and reading the play in the offensive zone.

Forechecking:

McGroarty's hockey IQ and hard work serve him well on the forecheck. He moves to get in good position, steals the puck or maintains possession on the boards to keep the cycle going.

Defense:

McGroarty is dedicated to defense. He reads the play to get back quickly and can help stop, turning the puck back toward offense.

Best Asset:

His best asset is his hockey IQ. His off puck play will be instrumental in his success in the NHL.

Biggest Concern:

Either his lack of dynamic play or lack of play driving. McGroarty will need to be on a line with someone who can get the play into the offensive zone.

Top Tier/Role Potential:

It's possible that McGroarty tops out as a 1st line at 60-70 pts

Justification for Top Tier Assessment:

His hockey IQ, work ethic and passing help facilitate the play of a very skilled playmaker.

50th Percentile Tier/Role:

I think McGroarty has enough skill to be at least a low end second line wing.

Justification for 50th Percentile Tier Assessment:

While he may lack elite skill, the sum of his parts can play an important part on a scoring line.

Stylistic Comparable:

A good stylistic comparable may be Blake Coleman. He'll play a valuable part but won't score the most points.

Scouts Final Thoughts and Additional Stats/Info:

Games Scouted:

Michigan Wolverines v U Mass 10/13/2023, USA v Czechia 12/29/2023, Michigan v Penn St 02/17/2024, Michigan v Minnesota 03/16/2024, All Gs and As