Rutger McGroarty tops Pensburgh’s 2025 Top 25 Under 25 as the Penguins’ No. 1 prospect. The 21-year-old forward, acquired from Winnipeg in 2024, flashed leadership and a strong two-way game after a 39-point AHL season and a late-season NHL surge that included his first goal against St. Louis.

He projects as a power-forward capable of anchoring Pittsburgh’s top six with net-front presence and secondary scoring, especially if Dan Muse’s development-focused approach accelerates his NHL transition. With Crosby still guiding the way, McGroarty represents a cornerstone in a patient rebuild for the franchise.