Likely to be what the team looks like - might be bit of an overpayment on Zucker and Bennett and Rittich might get more but that looks to be the team next season

Can someone explain the interest in Zucker?

I'm really not familiar with the Wild so I can only really look at his numbers and as far as term, AAV, and point production goes I don't really understand why him ending up on the Flames is almost a given (at least as far as this site is concerned).

Definitely not trolling either, I legitimately don't understand.

He is fast and skilled, and provides some great offensive upside. Defensively he is okay, but he scores well and uses his speed. Evolving Wild (https://evolving-hockey.com/) have him as the 30th most effective forward in the league over the past two years. He is quietly very good, by having some good strengths, and few weaknesses.

Fair question, I asked it myself when I heard the rumors. After looking in to it, like @KH44 said, he is quietly a very solid player. He is fast, responsible, plays with some grit and puts up decent points (on a not so good Wild club). He is also in the right age group. His contract is a little high, but should be manageable and he is a definite upgrade on Frolik in our top 6. Can't overlook that he is available and wouldn't be too expensive. I was on the Kadri bandwagon, but now that he is gone I was looking at other rumored options (Tyler Johnson, Kreider, etc.) and I think Zucker is our best bet that is left.

Thanks @nomad and @KH44 that's helpful.

Certainly understand the appeal a lot more now.

I think I'm also looking at his salary a little differently now. With prices going up, the Hayes contract for instance, might not be too bad to have him at that AAV for 4 years.