Penguins recall Rutger McGroarty, Ville Koivunen from AHL

The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins have clinched a playoff spot, but before they move to play for the Calder Cup, two of their young players are getting a chance in the big league.

Forwards Rutger McGroarty and Ville Koivunen have been recalled from the AHL to play for the Pittsburgh Penguins. With the move, forward Joona Koppanen has been sent back down to the AHL.

McGroarty has 14 goals and 39 points over 60 AHL games. The 20-year-old has also appeared in his first three NHL games this year, but has yet to record a point with Pittsburgh.

McGroarty was initially drafted 14th overall by the Winnipeg Jets in 2022, but was acquired by the Penguins in August for 2023 14th overall pick, Brayden Yager.

Koivunen leads all AHL rookies this season with 21 goals and 55 points. The 21-year-old was selected in the second round by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2021 before he was acquired by the Penguins as part of the package for Jake Guentzel.