Jason Zucker "Would Love to Be Back" in Nashville & Proved That in Big Way

Jason Zucker was a well worth it addition to the Nashville Predators at the trade deadline this season, and his stay may very well be extended. He has stated "I made it clear to Barry (Trotz) and Bruno (Andrew Brunette) that I'd like to be back."

Trotz said in the exit interview with the media that he would like to bring back every free agent if the money is right. Considering Zucker has made $35 million in his career, is without a Stanley Cup, and really enjoyed his time in Nashville, why wouldn't he take a little less on his next deal, regardless of the term?

Zucker made it clear "I would love to be back. I loved everything about being here." He played well in his role and the money wasn't an issue for the Predators this season. The power forward was one of the best players in the playoffs for Nashville as well and that's what the team needs moving forward.

Zucker is a great example of a team player. He noted he looks more at team success than player success as that will come if the first does. He also wants to be in Nashville to do what he can to help this team in the future take the next step.

As a playoff performer, and Zucker proved to be one, a team like the Predators could very much use him to not only reach the postseason, but help them advance further than the first round next time around.

Even if Zucker contributes 15-20 goals and 40 points, he likely won't have a $5.5 million AAV contract on the books after being re-signed by the Predators. He may also not be thrust into a top-six role as the younger players are improving and competing for more playing time. Zucker is more than capable of hitting those offensive marks, but he does have defensive ability and a physical nature which he's shown throughout his career.

Related: Predators 'Building Toward the Future' at 2024 NHL Draft

The Predators have a bright future and Zucker has only made it out of the first round once in his career in nine tries. He won't be a point-per-game player, but he will impact the game every night. In the first round against the Vancouver Canucks, Zucker was on the ice at five-on-five for three goals and zero against. His expected goals percentage (xG%) was 54.20% and his high danger chance for percentage (HDCF%) was 60%.

Since Zucker positively impacts the game at both ends of the ice, his HDCF% is usually very good, limiting better chances for the opposition and helping his line create chances. That was true when he came over to the Predators during the regular season as well. When he was on the ice, the high danger chances were 48-35 in favor of Nashville for a 57.83 HDCF%. That's not all. His xG% was great as well at 55.92% and the Predators outshot opponents while he was on the ice.

Nashville still has a good chunk of money to spend on upgrades, and that includes bringing back important pieces. I consider Zucker as an important piece of the puzzle for the Predators for at least 1-2 more years. He is 32 years old, so on the back half of his career, but unless he noticeably starts to show his decline at a more rapid rate, he's worth being kept around in a third line role.

At this stage of his career, being on the checking line and being able to contribute at both ends of the ice is valuable. I don't see a deal being settled for more than $3.5 million AAV on a short-term extension either. It will be unfortunate if the Predators don't bring Zucker back as he was and should continue to be a much-needed piece for the growth of the team.

Recent Predators News

Predators' Unlikely & Underrated 2015 Draft Still Paying Dividends

Ranking the Nashville Predators’ First-Round Picks of the Past 10 Years

Podcast: Should the Predators Pursue Mitch Marner? What About Steven Stamkos?

Predators' AHL Affiliate Advances to Central Division Final in Calder Cup Playoffs

Related: The Logical Move for Predators is to Marinate Askarov in AHL Next Season