Mats Zuccarello playoff performance helping Rangers get another possible 1st round pick

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Zuccarello (Getty Images)

When the Rangers traded Mats Zuccarello at the deadline, they got back what many felt was an underwhelming return. The deal was for a 2019 2nd round pick and third round pick in 2020. Now for the caveat, the 2nd rounder becomes a first if Dallas wins two playoff rounds and Zuccarello plays in half those games.

Halfway There

When Dallas beat St. Louis in game 2, it was Zuccarello’s 8th game and also put the Rangers just 3 Stars’ wins away from their 3rd 1st rounder in this draft. Another 1st rounder really gives Jeff Gorton flexibility to move up or acquire someone like Adam Fox from Carolina.

So far in the post season Mats has 3 goals and 6 points and showing just how effective he can be when it matters. If he and the Stars can continue this play, Jeff Gorton will look like a genius for getting those conditions as part of the deal.

Wait, it can get better

As for Zuccarello’s future in free agency, the fans of Dallas have embraced him and his teammates love him. Which means the final condition of this trade could hit as well. If Zuccarello re-signs that 3rd round pick in 2020 also becomes a first. Now that’s not a haul, it’s highway robbery.

Go Stars!

Featured Image: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

By Anthony Scultore

Anthony Scultore has been covering the New York Rangers and the NHL since 2014. His work also appears at... More about Anthony Scultore

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