Penguins prospect Rutger McGroarty addresses not being called up despite impressive play in the AHL
Photo credit: NHL.com
Tonight, Pittsburgh Penguins prospect Rutger McGroarty spoke about handling the frustration of being stuck in the AHL despite recent success.
Rutger McGroarty was expected to be an instant NHL player when the Pittsburgh Penguins acquired him from the Winnipeg Jets a couple of seasons ago.
Unfortunately, due to a combination of injuries and a slower development curve McGroarty finds himself still in the AHL with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins.
Since returning from his latest injury, McGroarty has been torching the AHL with 6 points and 4 goals in just 4 games played this season.
After his recent string of success, McGroarty spoke to the media about his progress and how he feels watching other players get called up over him.
Rutger McGroarty addresses mental challenge of having success in the AHL without an NHL opportunity
During his most recent post game press conference, McGroarty was asked what his mindset is after four great games in a row.
McGroarty seems to be just taking things one day at a time and focusing on what he can control to improve his game for the next time he gets an opportunity in the NHL.
Despite his lack of success in the NHL this stretch has shown a clear improvement over last season where McGroarty only put up 39 points in 60 games in the AHL.
At just 21-years-old McGroarty remains an important piece of the Penguins future heading into the post Crosby and Malkin era that is on the horizon.
For now, McGroarty will be an important piece of the AHL Penguins roster until either injuries or other issues come up for the main club.
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