Seeking to make significant changes after missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the fifth consecutive season, the Philadelphia Flyers recently hired Rick Tocchet as head coach. Now, just days ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft, the Flyers have bolstered their forward group by acquiring Trevor Zegras in a trade with the Anaheim Ducks.
In exchange for the dynamic forward, Philadelphia sent Ryan Poehling, their second-round pick (45th overall) in the 2025 draft, and a fourth-round pick in the 2026 draft to Anaheim.
Over five seasons with the Ducks, Zegras accumulated 67 goals and 119 assists. His most productive campaign was in 2022-23, where he set career highs with 65 points (23 goals, 42 assists) across 81 games. However, injuries have limited the flashy player to only 88 appearances combined over the last two seasons. Last year, Zegras posted 32 points (12 goals, 20 assists) in 57 games for Anaheim.
Meanwhile, the Ducks are also facing their own struggles, having missed the postseason for seven straight years. Anaheim recently acquired veteran forward Chris Kreider and possesses significant depth at forward, likely influencing their decision regarding Zegras.
Let`s break down what each team gained in this transaction and how Zegras fits into Philadelphia`s plans.
The Trade Details
Flyers Receive
- Trevor Zegras (Center)
Ducks Receive
- Ryan Poehling (Center)
- 2025 second-round pick
- 2026 fourth-round pick
Team Grades
Philadelphia Flyers
Since their last playoff appearance in the shortened COVID-19 season, the Flyers organization has been undergoing significant changes. The previous leadership, including general manager Chuck Fletcher and head coach John Tortorella, has been replaced by Danny Briere as GM and Rick Tocchet as coach.
While the Flyers did not qualify for the 2024-25 playoffs, Briere has focused on rebuilding the franchise for future success by accumulating numerous assets, including ten selections in the upcoming draft.
Trevor Zegras was once seen as a potential cornerstone player for the Ducks, but Anaheim`s forward depth has grown considerably with players like Troy Terry, Mason McTavish, Leo Carlsson, and Cutter Gauthier emerging. Interestingly, Gauthier was acquired from the Flyers last season in the trade that sent defenseman Jamie Drysdale to Philadelphia, after Gauthier reportedly indicated he would not sign with the Flyers who drafted him 5th overall in 2022.
Zegras earned a spot on the NHL All-Rookie Team in 2022 and followed up with back-to-back seasons (2021-22, 2022-23) exceeding 60 points. In the 2022-23 season, he led the Ducks in points (65), goals (23), game-winning goals (3), and overtime goals.
Acquiring Zegras carries some inherent risk, but it`s a risk the Flyers could afford given their surplus of draft capital. Zegras carries a salary of $5.75 million for the 2025-26 season before becoming a restricted free agent next summer. This gives Philadelphia a crucial opportunity to assess his fit within their top six forwards before committing to a long-term deal.
Although injuries have hampered Zegras over the past two seasons, limiting his time on the ice, he remains a highly skilled player who likely hasn`t reached his peak potential yet. Even if the move doesn`t pan out perfectly, it represents a worthwhile gamble for Briere, especially considering the primary asset surrendered was a second-round pick. Grade: B
Anaheim Ducks
Anaheim`s significant roster depth at forward is likely the primary driver behind their decision to trade Zegras. The market for Zegras may not have been as robust as it once was, reflected in the return package Anaheim received. Nevertheless, the Ducks gain relief from Zegras`s contract for the upcoming season.
In Ryan Poehling, the Ducks acquire a player suitable for their bottom six, potentially centering the fourth line. Poehling offers valuable versatility, capable of playing wing as needed. While not known for finesse, he`s a physical forward willing to engage in tough areas and score gritty goals. Poehling registered 12 goals and 19 assists with the Flyers in 2024-25.
The 2025 second-round pick is a particularly valuable asset, projected to be among the top 50 selections in this year`s draft. General manager Pat Verbeek managed a solid return by securing a second-rounder, which is crucial for a team aiming to finally return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs next year. Having an abundance of draft picks is never a disadvantage, as they can be used to select prospects or be traded later for established talent.
While not a blockbuster return for a player once envisioned as a franchise cornerstone, this trade allows Leo Carlsson to solidify his position as the team`s top-line center – a role Zegras previously occupied. This move appears to provide both Zegras and the Ducks with a necessary fresh start, following years of persistent trade rumors. Grade: C+
