The Winnipeg Jets hope Rutger McGroarty will return to NCAA University of Michigan for 2024-25.

The 20-year-old spent the 2023-24 regular season with Michigan, where he had 52 points, 16 goals and 36 assists in 36 games. McGroarty finished fifth in goals, second in assists and second in points, was named to the NCAA B1G First All-Star Team, NCAA B1G All-Tournament Team, NCAA West Second All-American Team and was named the Hobey Baker. Award candidate. Last season, he scored 18 goals and 39 points in 39 games to help Michigan win the NCAA B1G Championship.

Internationally, the Lincoln, Nebraska product represented Team USA three times, once at the Under-18 World Championships and twice at the World Juniors. He captained the Americans at the 2024 World Juniors, scoring five goals and four assists for nine points in seven games.

Michigan has seen a number of players turn pro this year with Frank Nazar, Dylan Duke and Gavin Brindley signing entry-level contracts with NHL clubs. With McGroarty returning to Michigan for another year, it will allow him to continue his development and not rush him to the NHL just yet.

Daily Faceoff prospect expert Stephen Ellis highlighted McGroarty in his top five NHL prospects who could turn pro after the NCAA championship. “Despite missing time with an injury before the World Juniors, McGroarty passed Brindley for first in scoring at Michigan,” Ellis said. “He finished the year with 52 points in 36 games, making him one of the most productive forwards in the NCAA. They really missed his presence when he was out – McGroarty does so much with the puck, drives the play so consistently that you need him to be healthy. He is one of Winnipeg's top forward prospects and I am confident that his combination of speed, skill and muscle will allow him to adapt seamlessly to the professional game.”