Anaheim Ducks forward Trevor Zegras is a popular name in the NHL rumor mill. If the team decides to move him, which NHL clubs would be good fits for him?
Anaheim Ducks forward Trevor Zegras is a popular name in the NHL rumor mill. If the team decides to move him, which NHL clubs would be good fits for him?
Anaheim Ducks forward Trevor Zegras was a popular name in the rumor mill during the 2023-24 NHL season. The speculation continues as the NHL approaches the draft and free agency.
With Zegras being under contract until 2025-26 and still being an RFA once his deal ends, the Ducks do not need to rush a trade after an injury-shortened season where he got 15 points in 31 games. However, if a club sends them an offer to help improve their roster elsewhere, Zegras could be expendable.
Which clubs could be the best landing spots for Zegras? Let's discuss three options.
Chicago Blackhawks
The Chicago Blackhawks may be rebuilding, but they are in a position to make some significant additions this summer. They have about $32 million of cap space, as well as four first-round picks, four second-round picks and no shortage of prospects to potentially include in an offer.
With Zegras only being 23 years old, he would have the potential to be a long-term part of the Blackhawks' core if acquired, whether he plays at center or on the wing. It is also no secret that star rookie Connor Bedard needs more help around him. Having a high-impact forward like Zegras on Bedard's wing would give him just that. They could make some real magic together.
Montreal Canadiens
The Montreal Canadiens were originally connected to Zegras before the trade deadline, although Ducks GM Pat Verbeek denied shopping him.
That said, their forward core could use another potential star, and Zegras would provide that. The Canadiens could still use some help down the middle, which Zegras could provide. However, he would also greatly improve their top six if the Canadiens elected to use him as a winger and bumped down Brendan Gallagher or Joel Armia.
Montreal could also appeal to Zegras, as he has a known friendship with Cole Caufield. They were also linemates before the NHL with USA Hockey, including in their National Team Development Program, the world juniors and, most recently, at the World Championship. Zegras being the playmaker for Caufield could make them a lethal duo on the Canadiens' first line.
Philadelphia Flyers
After the Philadelphia Flyers swapped top prospect Cutter Gauthier to the Ducks for Jamie Drysdale, they have been connected to Zegras since, but mainly in speculation. Drysdale and Zegras became good friends in Anaheim, but that would only be a bonus.
More importantly, Zegras would be a solid addition to a rising team like the Flyers. After a successful 2023-24 season, the Flyers should look to add young talent that better fits their competitive window. Zegras could give them that if the price is right and he goes back to recording 60-point seasons or better.
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