In a significant move that has the hockey world buzzing, Trevor Zegras has been traded to the Philadelphia Flyers by the Anaheim Ducks. The deal, finalized on Monday, June 23, 2025, sees the dynamic forward heading to the City of Brotherly Love in exchange for Ryan Poehling, a second-round pick (No. 45 overall) in the upcoming 2025 NHL Draft, and a fourth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft.
Zegras, 24, is known for his exceptional skill, creativity, and highlight-reel plays. The ninth overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, Zegras quickly became a fan favorite in Anaheim. After two impressive 60-point seasons, Zegras has struggled with injuries, hindering his ability to replicate that earlier success. During the 2024-2025 season, he recorded 32 points (12 goals, 20 assists) in 57 games. He also missed nearly seven weeks recovering from a torn meniscus in his right knee. Zegras is in the final year of his three-year contract with an AAV of $5.75 million, making him a restricted free agent at the end of the upcoming season.
"I want to thank Trevor for his contributions and efforts over the last six years," said Ducks General Manager Pat Verbeek. "While this was a difficult trade to make, we have and will continue to look at retooling our roster over the next couple of months, and this transaction is part of that process. We wish Trevor the best of luck with the Flyers."
For the Flyers, acquiring Zegras represents a bold move to inject more offensive firepower and excitement into their lineup. The team hopes that a change of scenery will unlock Zegras's full potential and that he will become a key player in their quest to return to Stanley Cup contention. Philadelphia is betting on his high-end skill and the potential to unlock even more in the young forward. Some analysts have previously linked Zegras to the Flyers, so this trade has been anticipated.
Heading to Anaheim is Ryan Poehling, a 26-year-old forward who had 31 points (12 goals, 19 assists) in 68 games for the Flyers this past season. Originally drafted by the Montreal Canadiens with the 25th overall pick in 2017, Poehling has played for the Canadiens, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Flyers, amassing 95 points (43 goals, 52 assists) in 283 career games. Poehling, who can become an unrestricted free agent after next season, provides the Ducks with a versatile forward who can contribute at both ends of the ice.
The Ducks also acquire a valuable second-round pick (45th overall) in the 2025 NHL Draft, giving them additional ammunition to add to their prospect pool. The Ducks will also receive a fourth-round pick in 2026. This marks the second trade between Anaheim and Philadelphia this year. Previously, the Ducks sent defenseman Jamie Drysdale and a second-round pick in the 2025 draft to the Flyers for forward Cutter Gauthier.
With the acquisition of Zegras, the Flyers now have a dynamic young forward to build around. The team already boasts promising talents like Matvei Michkov and Cutter Gauthier, and Zegras's arrival further strengthens their offensive core. The Flyers have six picks in the first two rounds of the 2025 NHL Draft, which will be held in Los Angeles.
The trade has sparked considerable discussion about how Zegras will fit into the Flyers' lineup. Some analysts predict that he could center the top line. Others suggest he might be deployed on the wing. Regardless of where he plays, the expectation is that Zegras will be given every opportunity to showcase his offensive abilities and become a key contributor for the Flyers.
