ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Mats Zuccarello era in Minnesota has officially come to an end.

The veteran winger signed a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Kings on the opening day of NHL free agency, ending a memorable seven-year run with the Wild that saw him become one of the most productive and beloved players in franchise history.

Zuccarello leaves Minnesota after recording 118 goals and 271 assists for 389 points in 452 regular-season games with the Wild.

He formed a dynamic partnership alongside Kirill Kaprizov and helped guide the franchise to multiple playoff appearances while establishing himself as one of the team's top playmakers.

The 38-year-old forward hit free agency after the expiration of his two-year contract and now joins a Kings team looking to add veteran skill and experience to its top-six forward group.

While Minnesota will move forward with a younger roster, replacing Zuccarello's vision, creativity and leadership won't be easy. His departure leaves another opening in the Wild's top six after also moving on from veteran forwards Vladimir Tarasenko and Marcus Johansson this offseason.

For the Kings, Zuccarello provides a proven offensive presence with more than 900 NHL games of experience and a track record of producing at a high level. For the Wild, it marks the end of an era as one of the organization's most impactful free-agent signings heads to Los Angeles for the next chapter of his career.

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