Where does Rutger McGroarty fit in the Penguins’ lineup?

Going into the 2024-25 season, the Pittsburgh Penguins’ roster had already looked to have some positional battles brewing in training camp.

And as of a few days ago, those battles may have just gotten a lot more interesting.

On August 22, the Pittsburgh Penguins acquired Rutger McGroarty in a prospect swap with the Winnipeg Jets for Brayden Yager.

McGroarty, one of the league’s top prospects, requested a trade from the Jets earlier this summer because he was not happy with his career trajectory with the organization. He sought a more surefire shot to play at the NHL level this season in a different city.

Presumably, the Penguins seem willing to give McGroarty that opportunity. So where will he fit in the Penguins’ lineup, presuming that he makes the roster out of camp?

It is no secret that McGroarty has top-six talent. He has the shot, the intangibles, the two-way awareness, and the playmaking ability to become an effective top-six winger.

However, the one knock on McGroarty in most scouting reports is his skating. Because this is definitely something to look out for, he may need some time to improve that facet of his game and – quite literally – find his stride and get up to speed at the NHL level.

Also, given head coach Mike Sullivan’s history with young players – and, even, with new players in the organization after a trade or a signing – he tends to ease them into their new role within the Penguins’ system.

With those factors combined, it wouldn’t come as a surprise to see McGroarty start the season on the third line, despite his top-six toolset and upside. It may not be the worst thing for both the young forward and the team, as Drew O’Connor has proven himself serviceable alongside Sidney Crosby and McGroarty would start his NHL career in a lower-pressure setting.

That being said: The Penguins should not hold out very long to see how McGroarty fits with Crosby. Not only do the Penguins need all of the scoring help they can get, but…