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That's right, say it with me folks. Mats Zuccarello has more goals in this series than Nash
— Dylan Butler (@Dylan_Butler) May 14, 2013
You might have heard of this tiny human being currently playing for the Rangers. Mats Zuccarello is the only Norwegian currently playing in the league. He's shorter than Brad Marchand, spends his days chirping Swedish Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist, and occasionally poses shirtless....ladies. Apparently his nickname is also "the hobbit" because not only is he short, he also bears a strange resemblance to Frodo Baggins. Weird.
Zuccarello has a goal and four assists in seven playoff games, after putting up 3-5-8 totals in 15 games this year. He seems to thrive in high-pressure situations; he was excellent in the Olympics in 2010 for Norway, putting up 1-2-3 totals in four games. In fact, it may have been that high-profile situation that prompted the Rangers to sign him to a contract for the 2010-2011 season.
Here's his usage chart. Look at this. Bubble size is average TOI/game. Bubble color is Corsi Rel. The Rangers are using him against the highest quality of competition in mostly offensive zone starts. He is a weapon. He's out there to create chances, and they're giving him the best possible opportunities to do so, moreso than anyone else on the team. They're also trusting him against the opposition's best.
via Hockey Abstract
He's on twitter. He played the start of the season for Metallurg Magnitogorsk in the KHL, and he has no fear. Literally. Despite being approximately four feet tall he runs around like a little tank out there, hitting whoever's in his path. And he's not afraid to chirp the big stars on his team:
@hlundqvist30 if u mean the guy that kan score on u whenever he wants pretty much then yeah ur right;)
— Mats Zuccarello (@zuccarello36) March 27, 2013
The Bottom Line - The Bruins are definitely going to have to make covering Zuccarello a priority. He's tiny and adorable but jeez he will beat you down when you least expect it. Like he did to the Caps last night!
And now you better know a Dumb Jerk Ranger!