Mats Zuccarello (middle) will return to the Rangers for 2013-14.

Mats Zuccarello will return for another season. The diminutive 25-year old forward reached agreement with the Rangers on a one-year $1.15 million deal to avoid arbitration. A hearing was scheduled for tomorrow.

Instead, Zuccarello was re-signed leaving Ranger President and General Manager Glen Sather with one big task left. He still must get Derek Stepan done. The Rangers have approximately $2.2 million left. Stepan will command more than that forcing Sather to maneuver under the cap. That bridge will be crossed when they get there.

For now, the Blueshirts brought back the speedy playmaking Norwegian at a reasonable price. After returning from the KHL for a second stint, Zuccarello improved posting eight points (3-5-8) in 15 games. In his first taste of NHL playoffs, he posted a goal and six assists for seven points ranking second behind Derick Brassard (2-10-12) for the team lead. His willingness to take on stronger players made him an effective player. Particularly good on the power play, he set up three of the Rangers’ four power play goals.

MZA isn’t a top line guy. However, he’s versatile enough to be moved around. It’s a good move retaining a creative player who doesn’t back down from anyone.