Big trade proposal emerges from Winnipeg sending Rutger McGroarty to Montreal

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Elias Edmonson
June 26, 2024 (8:50 PM)

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A few days ago, we learned that the Winnipeg Jets were apparently going to trade the young Rutger McGroarty, and he was linked to the Montreal Canadiens.

The organization and the young prospect do not share the same vision on how his development should proceed.

In a recent column, we mentioned that Kent Hughes would certainly contact Kevin Cheveldayoff to inquire about the price if McGroarty is indeed available. At that time, we suggested that the Jets might want to either reclaim their 26th overall pick or acquire a significant impact defenseman (Mike Matheson or Kaiden Guhle?) in return for the 14th overall pick from the 2022 draft.

Justin Barron and the 26th overall pick, for Rutger McGroarty? This comes from a Winnipeg journalist and would be excellent for the Montreal Canadiens

Journalist Scott Billeck of the Winnipeg Sun indeed looked into the matter and suggested an intriguing offer involving the Habs. He believes the Jets would want to acquire a first-round pick, having lost theirs in the trade involving Sean Monahan. However, he thinks this would not be enough and suggests that adding defenseman Justin Barron could serve as good bait for Kent Hughes.

«Although he could use McGroarty as trade currency to acquire a first-round pick (they traded this year's pick to Montreal in February for center Sean Monahan), the goal could be higher.

[...]

I wonder if Montreal is also in the running, proposing Justin Barron (Morgan's brother). Justin did not have an excellent year in Montreal and his value has dropped since his 25th overall selection in 2020.» - Scott Billeck

If the Jets' demands for McGroarty are only the 26th pick and Justin Barron, I hope Kent Hughes won't hesitate! With the number of defensemen he has in his ranks, even though Barron is a right-hander, the offense that the Jets forward could bring to the club makes this trade a no-brainer.

However, I would be surprised if it were that simple for Kent Hughes. Kevin Cheveldayoff is experienced and will certainly ask for more for his young prospect.

Nonetheless, the Habs' GM is a shrewd negotiator and has always managed to get the right price in his trades. It should not be overlooked that the two clubs also have a good relationship following the Sean Monahan trade.

In his second season in the NCAA, the 20-year-old forward amassed 52 points, including 16 goals, in 36 games. McGroarty also showcased his talent on the international stage this winter at the World Junior Hockey Championship, with nine points in seven games.

A case to follow...