The Jets first pick in the first round of the 2022 Draft Rutger McGroarty is having himself an excellent sophomore season at Michigan as his Wolverines are rolling and he’s the co-leader in NCAA scoring. He jumped on the Pucks in Deep podcast to chat with Connor and James starting at the 21:46 mark and rolls until the 1:15:29.
Description:
Rutger joins the boys to talk about playing in front of the Children of Yost, his path to Michigan, bringing the dab back, going to the Frozen Four, College Hockey rivalries, NHL Draft night, NTDP, and much more!
Some quotable comments:
McGroarty said he felt he did a bad job last season of setting goals for himself. “This year my mindset has been so much better of just being dialled in” It’s early but he’s currently co-leader in NCAA scoring. Said he’s working on – creating a routine – eating the right foods – getting to bed on time “…turning into that pro you want to be”. He was asked if the turning into a pro/nutrition is being directed by Winnipeg, Michigan or both? “I think the Jets have done a great job of trusting the University of Michigan. They know how good the University of Michigan is, all of the resources that we have”.
The guys revisited McGroarty being drafted by the Jets 14th overall. “The best part about it honestly is seeing how excited they are, seeing the smiles on their faces. I’m going to a franchise that wants me, wants to develop me and cares for me”. Interesting nugget from him is that prospects are seated at the draft based on a ranking so McGroarty was sitting at the very top of the section.
McGroarty was asked if he’s chatted with former Wolverine, current Jets winger Kyle Connor. He hadn’t but he’s spoken to former Wolverine/Jet Andrew Copp who “had great things to say about it”. He also said the Jets fan base has been unreal.
McGroarty re: if he’s mindful “Jets are watching”. Said focus is winning national championship for Michigan: “..I’m a winner. I love winning. I hate, I absolutely hate losing. So right now I’m just 100% focused on Michigan doing what I can to help our team..”. Added: “…once that day comes then I’ll be fully committed to Winnipeg.”
