The Pittsburgh Penguins have sent rookie forwards Avery Hayes and Rutger McGroarty back to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton AHL team. Both players are expected to participate in AHL games over the next few weeks while the NHL takes a break for the Olympics.
Hayes made an impressive NHL debut on Thursday night against the Buffalo Sabres, scoring twice in his first game—a feat that stands out in league history. His first goal came early in the game, with a quick dash past two defenders to beat the goalie, showcasing his speed. His second goal was set up by a nice pass from Anthony Manta, beating the opposing goalie once again. This achievement makes Hayes the 12th undrafted player ever in the NHL to score multiple goals in his debut and only the seventh to do so early in his first game.
Rutger McGroarty also performed well, finishing the game with an assist and demonstrating consistent improvement in his skating and positioning, which bodes well for his future in the league.
Both players are on track to become full-time NHL contributors soon. The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins are currently in second place in the Atlantic Division, just behind the Providence Bruins, and are aiming to climb to the top before the season ends.
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Fan Take: These developments excite fans because they highlight the Penguins’ depth of talented young players ready to make significant contributions at the NHL level. It also signals a bright future for the franchise and adds to the growing interest in nurturing homegrown talent within the league.
