On June 23, 2025, the Flyers acquired forward Trevor Zegras from the Anaheim Ducks in a trade. In exchange, the Ducks received forward Ryan Poehling, a 2025 second-round pick (No. 45 overall, originally from Columbus), and a 2026 fourth-round pick, “Once I found out it was Philly, it was really cool. Thought of Jamie and Cam,” Zegras said. “I lived with Jamie for two years in Anaheim.”
Zegras, 24, was drafted ninth overall by Anaheim in 2019 and has one year left on his contract with a $5.75 million cap hit. He recorded 32 points (12 goals, 20 assists) in 57 games during the 2024-25 season, impacted by a torn meniscus injury that sidelined him for nearly seven weeks. Over his career, Zegras has 186 points (67 goals, 119 assists) in 268 NHL games, with standout seasons in 2021-22 (61 points) and 2022-23 (65 points). Known for his creative playmaking, including lacrosse-style “Michigan” goals, he was named to the NHL All-Rookie Team in 2022. However, injuries and inconsistent performance over the past two seasons led to trade rumors, culminating in this move.
Zegras Is very familiar with Philadelphia, and their fan base, “That building is awesome. The fans are passionate. I’m excited to be there,” Zegras said.
“That building is awesome. The fans are passionate. I’m excited to be there.” – Trevor Zegras said of the trade to Philadelphia
The Flyers see Zegras as a potential top-six center to address their need for offensive skill down the middle, pairing him with talents like Matvei Michkov. His reunion with close friend and former Ducks teammate Jamie Drysdale, now with Philly, may ease his transition. Critics note his defensive weaknesses (career minus-48, 40.1% faceoff percentage), but the Flyers view this as a low-risk, high-reward bet given his age and past production. Philadelphia retains significant draft capital, with six picks in the first two rounds of the 2025 NHL Draft, including three first-rounders.
For Anaheim, the trade frees up $3.8 million in cap space and adds Poehling, a 26-year-old versatile forward with 31 points (12 goals, 19 assists) in 68 games last season, who can slot into their bottom six. The Ducks also gain draft picks to bolster their rebuild, though some argue the return is underwhelming given Zegras’ earlier potential as a cornerstone player.
Whatever the case maybe, Zegras Is trying to resurrect his career in Philadelphia, with his pals Drysdale and York by his side.
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