The Pittsburgh Penguins made headlines recently by acquiring Rutger McGroarty, a top prospect who played the last two seasons at the University of Michigan.
In 2023-24, the 20-year-old finished as a Hobey Baker Award finalist as one of the top collegiate players in the United States. Through 75 games with the Wolverines, he’s scored 34 goals with 57 assists for 91 points.
When we dig through his game logs from the past two seasons in the NCAA, we see that McGroarty has had some memorable performances. Here’s a look at those games.
Oct. 29, 2022 – First NCAA Hat Trick
In a thrilling 6-5 overtime victory against Western Michigan University on Oct. 29, 2022, McGroarty scored his first career NCAA hat trick. Although he did not score the game-winner, he netted three power-play goals in the contest.
Mar. 24, 2023 – Second NCAA Hat Trick
Blowout victories are a part of sports, and no one is immune to them. On Mar. 24, 2023, McGroarty notched his second career NCAA hat trick in an 11-1 victory over Colgate University.
As expected, two of those lamplighters came on the power play, so out of his two college hat tricks, five of his six goals have come on the man advantage.
Oct. 8, 2023 – First Four-Point Game
Surprisingly, McGroarty did not score a hat trick at the University of Michigan in 2023-24 but had his first career four-point game in a 5-4 victory over Providence College. With a goal and three assists, he factored in on 80% of the team’s offense that night.
Jan. 12, 2024 – Career High Plus-5
As mentioned, blowouts are common when top-ranked schools face off against lower ones. On Jan. 12, 2024, McGroarty was plus-5 in a 12-4 win over Stonehill College.
In the game, he had three assists and two shots. That night’s plus/minus rating surpassed his previous high of plus-4 against Ohio State on Mar. 11, 2023.
Jan. 20, 2024 – Career High Shots on Goal
In a contest against Michigan State University, McGroarty was on a heater, picking up his third four-point (two goals and two assists) contest of the season while firing a career-high 14 shots on goal.
Related: “I’m Going to Come Ready to Work”: McGroarty Aims to Make Impression in Pittsburgh
Related: 5 Things to Know About Penguins Prospect Rutger McGroarty
Related: Where does Rutger McGroarty fit in the Penguins’ lineup?
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