Jason Zucker: Soon To Be Wild?

But what about Jason Zucker?

If the season started during 2012, it was expected that Jason Zucker would be playing in Houston and the Wild would be on its way to playing itself into a playoff position by the end of the season (yeah, I said it!).

But it has been a few months into the AHL season, and not only has Zucker proven to be a top player for the Aeros, he has proven to one of the top rookies in the entire AHL.

You could not have asked for a better rookie performance from Jason Zucker.

Even during his successful years in the WCHA, I held that belief.

Minnesota Wild Current Situation

For a better look at where Zucker stands within the Wild organization, here is the projected lines for the 2013 season.

What about being the extra, or reserved, forward?

The Wild currently have three extra forwards under NHL contracts.

Can Zucker Beat His Competition?

But I don't care. Can he do it?

I think he can.

We all know what Kassian brings: an enforcer with great character but not the greatest skater or anything else. We all love him, he is a great player. It was great watching him sign that two-year one way contract. But besides some physicality, he is not going to bring a whole lot more.

What Jason Zucker Brings To The Table
A hardworking and agitating forechecking forward. Skates hard, skates quick. Energetic and determined. A deceptive shot, a good nose for the net.

If the Wild some solid physical presence on its fourth line, then Zucker probably won't wear the Wild jersey.

But say, the Wild continue to struggle scoring goals, like it has always have.

Oh, it was painful to watch.

...But I Might Be Stretching It A Bit
Looking at the crowd of forwards, Jason Zucker will probably stay with the Aeros and develop there with top line minutes.

The only way he'll play for the Wild are under three options:

The most likely scenario is #1, where the Wild need Jason Zucker to produce some bottom line offense and I tell you, I would extremely excited to see this on the ice in 2013