Continuing the Rebuild

*the 2020 3rd round pick (WPG) is conditional-- if the Jets make the second round of the playoffs, if they fail to do so the pick becomes a 2020 6th round pick (WPG) *
Trade deadline deal

Trade deadline deal

*the 2019 1st round pick (LAK) is a conditional pick-- if the Kings make it to the third round in 2019 than the pick remains a 1st round pick, if Zuccarello resigns than the pick would also remain a 1st round pick (in this instance it would a become a 2020 1st round pick lottery protected if he signs after the draft)-- the Rangers get the pick for which ever condition is triggered first, if however neither condition is met the pick becomes a 2019 2nd round pick (LAK)*

The trade makes some sense for the Kings, who appear to be going all in on their core. They have a few years left as a solid group, but play in a much improved pacific division. Zuccarello would be a solid add into the top six with his tenacious attitude, perfect for the playoffs.

The Rangers get a solid centre prospect and take on a bit of bad contract, yet get a player who can provide some physicality that they lose in trading McQuaid, plus Clifford has another year so they may be able to flip him next year. The also potentially get a first round pick or second round pick if Zuccarello doesn't resign with the Kings ( quiet frankly if this outcome takes place it means he is asking for too much, in which case the rangers are wise to have traded the player OR that he wants to simply play else where, in which case a return to the Rangers would not be out of the question)