re: NHL Post Season Ultimate Anything Can Happen Thread

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But Zucker shot 14.9% that season. He's shooting 18.7% this season. He's a goal scorer who's likely going to slide in on Sidney Crosby's wing. This should be fun.

Zucker has been an under-the-radar standout for the Wild. Over the past three seasons, he has been their second-best forward when measured by goals scored above average per 60 minutes (0.604). He was also second on Minnesota in individual expected goals rate at 5-on-5 (34.58) for the past three seasons. His contract was signed after a 30-goal season and could look like a bargain if Zucker gets back to that level while playing with Crosby or Evgeni Malkin. A $5.5 million cap hit through 2023 gives the Penguins a level of cost certainty, as well.

Since Zucker doesn't have a no-move clause, Pittsburgh could also use him as Seattle expansion draft bait should the need arise. He's a solid player, a solid citizen and a much better investment than the rental wingers on the market. General manager Jim Rutherford finally gets his man, and the cost -- while potentially heavy, depending on prospect development -- certainly doesn't harm the current roster.

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