The Anaheim Ducks' GM denied shopping center Trevor Zegras or receiving calls about him. But during a tough season for the 23-year-old, that hasn't stopped media speculation.

Anaheim Ducks center Trevor Zegras became the subject of trade rumors after teammate Jamie Drysdale was shipped to the Philadelphia Flyers in January for Cutter Gauthier. If they could trade a supposed franchise cornerstone such as Drysdale, the assumption was they could do the same with Zegras. 

Insiders claimed the Montreal Canadiens were among several teams to speak with the Ducks about Zegras. Following last month's trade deadline, however, Ducks GM Pat Verbeek denied shopping the 23-year-old forward and denied he received any calls from other clubs about him. 

Nevertheless, speculation persists about Zegras' future in Anaheim.

The New York Post's Larry Brooks noted Zegras' frustration during last Thursday's game in Seattle when he destroyed the penalty box camera. He felt the young forward was “in need of a new beginning.”

On Sunday, TNT hockey analyst Anson Carter said he still saw Zegras playing a part in the Ducks' future but claimed there were questions about where he fits within their roster. Carter pointed out they have an “embarrassment of riches” at center in Gauther, Leo Carlsson and Mason McTavish. As the Ducks try to bolster their defense, Carter wondered if there is room for Zegras.

The Hockey News' Patrick Present reported Verbeek addressed this last month before Zegras returned from a fractured ankle. 

“With Leo (Carlsson) and MacTavish being there, we see them as our centermen,” said Verbeek. “Trevor's probably going to play the wing when he gets back.”

Chicago Hockey Now's Nate Brown noted Carter's comments and pondered over whether the Blackhawks should look into acquiring Zegras during the off-season. He felt it best for the Hawks to wait another year to see how things go with their rebuild and that of the Ducks. If the Ducks decide to move Zegras, Brown believes they'll set a high asking price.