"Jason Zucker is a top-six forward that we think will be a great fit for our group," said Penguins general manager Jim Rutherford. "He's a proven goal scorer, and with three more years on his current contract, he has the potential to make an impact for us moving forward."
The 28-year-old Zucker currently ranks sixth on Minnesota this season with 29 points (14G-15A) in 45 games. Zucker's 14 goals are tied for third on the Wild, while his five power-play goals are tied for second on the team.
The 5-foot-11, 192-pound winger has notched 132 goals, 111 assists and 243 points in 456 NHL games, all with Minnesota, and is a career plus-21. He ranks in the top-15 on many of the Wild's all-time lists, including games played (12th), goals (4th), assists (14th), points (9th), and game-winning goals (5th). The Newport Beach, California native has also appeared in 31 career Stanley Cup Playoff games with Minnesota where he's picked up eight points (4G-4A).
In 2017-18, Zucker enjoyed career-highs in games played (82), goals (33), assists (31) and points (64). He has reached the 40-point mark in each of the past three seasons.
In addition to his on-ice performance, Zucker was the recipient of the 2018-19 King Clancy Memorial Trophy. The award is presented annually "to the player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made a noteworthy humanitarian contribution in his community." Zucker and his wife, Carly, were recognized for their various charitable efforts throughout the Minneapolis area during his tenure with the Wild.
Drafted in the second round (59th overall) in the 2010 NHL Draft, Zucker has appeared internationally for the United States on multiple occasions. He played in three World Junior championships, winning a gold medal in 2010 and a bronze medal in 2011. He served as captain of the 2012 U.S. World Junior squad, registering seven points (3G-4A) in six games.
Prior to his time in the NHL, Zucker played two seasons at the University of Denver of the NCAA, where he tallied 91 points (45G-46A) in 78 games. He also played two seasons with the U.S. National Team Development Program from 2008-10.
