The Arizona Coyotes have made a notable move in free agency, signing winger Jason Zucker to a one-year deal worth $5.3 million. Zucker, who played 78 games with the Pittsburgh Penguins last season, recorded 27 goals and 21 assists. It’s an interesting deal, not only because Zucker has chosen the Coyotes (which few free agents do), but it signals the first time the team has gone to the market to add a player that could potentially help them right away.
This signing comes after he completed his five-year, $27.5 million contract with the Minnesota Wild and was subsequently traded to the Penguins in 2020. With a career spanning 628 games, the 31-year-old Newport Beach native has accumulated 182 goals and 338 points between his stints with the Penguins and Wild. Zucker was initially chosen by the Wild in the second round of the 2010 NHL Draft, showcasing his talent and potential early on. The Coyotes’ acquisition of Zucker brings a skilled and experienced player to their roster, adding depth and scoring ability to their lineup for the upcoming season.
While Jason Zucker faced challenges during his time in Pittsburgh, his undeniable contributions last season speak volumes. If the Penguins manage to re-sign him, their top-six lineup will remain intact, making any changes a luxury rather than a necessity. This provides the team with the opportunity to prioritize bolstering their depth players.
It remains to be seen if this is a signing that will allow the Coyotes to trade the player at the deadline for future assets.
Next: Michael Bunting Signs Three-Year Deal with Carolina Hurricanes
