Wild Roster Rebalancing Act: Zuccarello's Impact Hard to Ignore
When veteran forward Mats Zuccarello missed training camp due to a lower body ailment, many fans wondered if he'd be back in time for the season. The answer was yes, and when he finally returned for Minnesota's Nov. 7 game against the Islanders, it marked the beginning of an unprecedented winning streak for the Wild.
In just eight games since his return, Zuccarello has notched a staggering eight points, including one goal and seven assists. His on-ice presence is clear, but so too is his impact off the ice. Coach John Hynes credits Zuccarello with bringing "a personality and veteran presence to the team that's very positive." He also attributes Zuccarello's influence in loosening up the team and playing the game "the right way."
Zuccarello's grit has been on full display since his return, fighting for a spot in the lineup despite dealing with an illness. The 38-year-old mainstay has shown no signs of slowing down, earning praise from Hynes and teammates alike.
One thing's clear: Zuccarello's presence is hard to ignore. With his eight points in just eight games, he's become a key factor in the Wild's resurgence. As for what Zuccarello himself says about his impact, that remains private – but those around him are singing his praises.
With forward Vinnie Hinostroza set to miss week-to-week with a lower body injury, the Wild have been able to absorb the loss without calling up an additional forward. But it's clear that Zuccarello is making up for lost time and proving why he remains a vital part of Minnesota's roster.
When veteran forward Mats Zuccarello missed training camp due to a lower body ailment, many fans wondered if he'd be back in time for the season. The answer was yes, and when he finally returned for Minnesota's Nov. 7 game against the Islanders, it marked the beginning of an unprecedented winning streak for the Wild.
In just eight games since his return, Zuccarello has notched a staggering eight points, including one goal and seven assists. His on-ice presence is clear, but so too is his impact off the ice. Coach John Hynes credits Zuccarello with bringing "a personality and veteran presence to the team that's very positive." He also attributes Zuccarello's influence in loosening up the team and playing the game "the right way."
Zuccarello's grit has been on full display since his return, fighting for a spot in the lineup despite dealing with an illness. The 38-year-old mainstay has shown no signs of slowing down, earning praise from Hynes and teammates alike.
One thing's clear: Zuccarello's presence is hard to ignore. With his eight points in just eight games, he's become a key factor in the Wild's resurgence. As for what Zuccarello himself says about his impact, that remains private – but those around him are singing his praises.
With forward Vinnie Hinostroza set to miss week-to-week with a lower body injury, the Wild have been able to absorb the loss without calling up an additional forward. But it's clear that Zuccarello is making up for lost time and proving why he remains a vital part of Minnesota's roster.