Mats Zuccarello could be gone soon (Getty)
Norwegian website VG Sport believes this could be Mats Zuccarello’s last year in a Blueshirt. Thanks to Marc Staal’s extension and Derek Stepan’s expected next contract to be around the $6M mark, Zuccarello may be on his way out of NY.
Mats Zuccarello with reporters
The beloved Ranger known affectionately to the fans as “The Hobbit” is concerned about his future as well. “If they want me, I do not know,” VG quoted Zuccarello. “I’m going to play somewhere next year, but I do not know where. All I can do is play what I’m good for.”
Rumors were all over the internet that Zuccarello’s agent came into NY yesterday to see him. Zucc’s sentiments above could be why Mats’ representatives came to meet with him. As per this tweet, speculation became confirmation.
Just got confirmation that Mats Zuccarello will be meeting with his agents tomorrow night in New York.
— Mathias Ask (@MathiasAsk) January 19, 2015
The Rangers have three scouts in Toronto for Hurricanes/Leafs https://t.co/y90gw2DeEC — Adam Rotter (@AdamRotter) January 20, 2015
Many believe the Rangers are trying to obtain defenseman Andrej Sekera, but the rumor mill has the Leafs very active in the market. I’m still trying to understand this obsession to acquire Sekera to play 6th man on defense.
The Rangers issue is depth at center, especially in the face-off circle. Maybe the Blueshirts are trying to acquire 28 year old center, Tyler Bozak who has the same exact cap hit as Zuccarello’s $3.5M.
Tyler Bozak (Abelimages/Getty Images)
Of course, Bozak for Zuccarello even up won’t fly because Bozak is under contract for the next 3 years after signing a 5 year – $21M deal in 2013. The Rangers would have to give up more just in case Zuccarello decides to go elsewhere in the offseason.
Again, this is pure speculation on my part and you would have to assume that Toronto would need assurances he would sign with them before parting with a player like Bozak.
This season Bozak has 14 goals and 32 points in 47 games. He also is winning nearly 52% of all draws he has taken. At 6’1″ and 195 lbs, he should be able to hold his own against the bigger centers in the Metro.
So is this really the end of Zuccarello on Broadway? This is the salary cap era and there are no certainties anymore. The Rangers are hoping the ceiling hits $73M, but even if it comes in that high it will be difficult to retain everyone on the roster today.
It’s a harsh reality and one that could be made worse by the loss of The Hobbit.
