The scene unfolded less than two weeks ago outside the Stars practice facility in Frisco, where a floppy-haired relative unknown worked his way through an autograph line, scribbling his signature and posing for pictures with fans who'd waited to see him not only in person but also in games.
Stars fans wanted to see Mats Zuccarello -- the team's biggest trade deadline acquisition, simultaneously the Norwegian savior of the offense and a mysterious weapon to be unwrapped around playoff time.
Zuccarello is a paradox of sorts. He's the 5-foot-8 winger with the massive stick who battles in the corners and shoves after whistles.