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Trevor Zegras has always been one of the NHL’s most exciting young talents. From jaw-dropping lacrosse-style goals to highlight-reel assists, he quickly made himself a household name and one of the faces of the Anaheim Ducks’ rebuild. But the 2023–24 season was a reminder that development isn’t always a straight line. Injuries, inconsistency, and questions about his defensive play left many fans wondering: can Zegras get his game back, and where exactly will he fit in the Ducks’ lineup moving forward?

The Philadelphia Flyers made a major splash ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft, announcing the acquisition of center Trevor Zegras from the Anaheim Ducks. In return, Anaheim receives forward Ryan Poehling, the Flyers’ 45th overall pick in the 2025 Draft, and their 2026 fourth-round pick, according to GM Daniel Brière.

It’s a blockbuster deal that gives Philadelphia one of the most electrifying playmakers in hockey, while also reuniting Zegras with former Ducks teammate and close friend Jamie Drysdale.

Breaking Down the Trade

Zegras, 24, was selected ninth overall by Anaheim in the 2019 NHL Draft and has spent the last five seasons with the Ducks. Over 268 career games, he’s tallied 67 goals, 119 assists, and 186 points, including back-to-back 60+ point campaigns in 2021–22 and 2022–23.

During the 2022–23 season, Zegras led Anaheim in scoring with 65 points, including 23 goals. He was named to the NHL All-Rookie Team in 2022 and has long been recognized as one of the league’s most creative young stars.

Last season was a step back for him, however, as injuries and inconsistency limited Zegras to 12 goals and 32 points in 57 games. Despite the setback, he still ranked top-five on the Ducks in points per game and remains a high-upside offensive threat.

Before turning pro, Zegras played at Boston University, where he notched 36 points in 33 games, and shined internationally with Team USA. He was named MVP of the 2021 World Junior Championship, posting a dominant 18 points in 7 games to lead the Americans to gold.

For Anaheim, the return is about stockpiling picks and flexibility. With Poehling and a pair of draft selections, the Ducks continue their rebuild. For Philadelphia, it’s about adding a potential cornerstone talent to accelerate their climb back into contention.

A Step Back After Early Stardom

YOUR @NHL ALL-TIME LEADER IN LACROSSE-STYLE GOALS:

🚨 TREVOR ZEGRAS 🚨#FlyTogether pic.twitter.com/8fLkzJ9unC

— Anaheim Ducks (@AnaheimDucks) December 24, 2023

In his first two full NHL seasons, Zegras posted 61 and 65 points,  strong production for a player still learning the league. His creativity and vision were undeniable, and he looked like a future franchise cornerstone. But last season was tough. Limited to under 35 games due to injuries, Zegras never found his rhythm. His numbers dipped, and Anaheim struggled mightily as a team, finishing near the bottom of the standings again.

That kind of year can create doubt, but it can also serve as a reset. For Zegras, the biggest challenge now is proving that he’s more than just a flashy highlight reel. He’ll need to show he can contribute consistently in all situations.

Where Does He Fit in Philadelphia?

The Flyers pulled off one of the biggest moves of the offseason by bringing in Trevor Zegras, and the question now is how he’ll slot into the lineup. Philadelphia’s roster suddenly has an intriguing mix of youth and proven talent, and Zegras could become the centerpiece of it all.

One exciting possibility is centering a line between Russian phenom Matvei Michkov and the always-reliable Travis Konecny. Michkov brings elite finishing ability, Konecny plays with grit and pace, and Zegras could be the creative spark that ties it all together. On paper, that trio has the potential to be one of the most dynamic lines in the league,  a blend of flash, scoring touch, and relentless energy.

The trade also reunites Zegras with his longtime friend Jamie Drysdale, who was dealt to Philadelphia last season. The two developed strong chemistry in Anaheim, and having a familiar face in the locker room could help Zegras settle in quickly with his new team.

Can He Get His Game Back?

The tools haven’t gone anywhere. Zegras still has the vision, hands, and flair that made him a household name in Anaheim. What the Flyers are hoping for is consistency, a version of Zegras who can generate offense night after night while also embracing more responsibility down the middle.

At just 23 years old, he has plenty of runway left to round out his game. If he stays healthy and thrives in a top-six role, Zegras has every chance to return to the 60–70 point range, maybe even higher if the chemistry clicks with Michkov and Konecny.

Philadelphia took a gamble, but it could be the move that reshapes their offense for years to come. Zegras’ skill set perfectly complements the Flyers’ budding core, and the reunion with Drysdale makes the transition even smoother.

Will Zegras get his game back in orange and black? The bet here is yes, and if he does, Flyers fans might be watching the birth of one of the league’s most entertaining top lines.