McGROARTY FOR YAGER
The Pittsburgh Penguins acquired forward Rutger McGroarty from the Winnipeg Jets for center Brayden Yager?
What does it give the Pittsburgh Penguins
Teams rarely trade top prospects for other top prospects but Pittsburgh and Winnipeg did just that! McGroarty is arguably more versatile and can play any forward position. He is also a year older and bigger, so look for the Penguins to sign McGroarty to an ELC before the start of training camp. He might be ready for the NHL, and the Pens need young NHL talent right now.
What does it give the Winnipeg Jets
The Jets had to move on from McGroarty, who was displeased with the organization and wanted out. Winnipeg could not have done better than Yager here. He is a potential two-way center with loads of upside. A right-shooting center, Yager is only 19 and will probably be sent back to the WHL after training camp. Five years from now, which team will be the clear trade winner?
Fantasy impact
Both McGroarty and Yager are great fantasy keepers, and this trade probably helps both players in the future. Yager has the potential to become Winnipeg's next No. 1 center, though there are other candidates in the organization. He might make his NHL debut later, though. McGroarty could sign with the Penguins and make his debut this season, which obviously ups his fantasy value. For now, he should only be drafted in keeper formats. However, keep an eye on him if he signs before training camp starts.
