The Pittsburgh Penguins have been hit hard with injuries as they head into the final stretch of the season, with the announcement that five of their forwards are sidelined. Rookie Rutger McGroarty, along with Noel Acciari, Blake Lizotte, Matt Nieto, and Tommy Novak, will be missing the last three games, ensuring the team makes its exit from the current campaign on a somber note.
Coach Mike Sullivan shared the update following the team’s practice at the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex, confirming that none of the injured players were on the ice. The Penguins, already out of playoff contention, will now rely on replacements from their AHL affiliate to fill the gaps.
The silver lining, though thin, is that surgery isn't on the cards for any of the injured players, which should aid their recovery paths. But the situation puts a particular spotlight on McGroarty.
The rookie’s predicament started when he blocked a shot with his left foot during the game against Chicago. His future in this season remains uncertain.
McGroarty's situation comes with a twist; while his NHL season has been abruptly paused, there's hope he might still see action. The team’s AHL affiliate, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, have punched their ticket to the Calder Cup playoffs, and getting McGroarty some ice time in those high-stakes games might just work wonders for his development. As one of the top prospects, McGroarty has shown promise, having notched a goal and two assists in his eight NHL appearances this season.
Coach Sullivan expressed disappointment at McGroarty’s bad luck, especially since the young forward was beginning to flourish on the NHL stage. “It’s disappointing because he was playing real well, and we thought it was a great experience for him to get NHL games,” Sullivan remarked.
Yet, there remains a glimmer of hope. If McGroarty can get back on his skates soon enough, Wilkes-Barre’s playoff run could offer him valuable experience and the chance to contribute significantly.
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