Trevor Zegras Eager to Reconnect with Loyal Ducks Fans
Trevor Zegras returns to Anaheim this week as a member of the Philadelphia Flyers. He will skate at Honda Center on Wednesday night. Fans at Ducks games still wear his No. 46 and No. 11 jerseys.
Trade and Philadelphia breakout
Zegras was dealt last June to the Flyers. The Ducks received center Ryan Poehling, a 2025 second-round pick (Michigan State freshman Eric Nilson) and a 2026 fourth-round selection.
In his first game against Anaheim after the trade, on Jan. 6, Zegras scored twice in a 5-2 Flyers win. He punctuated that performance with a pointed celebration aimed at how quickly the trade call came from Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek.
Career arc and recent production
Drafted by Anaheim in 2019, Zegras quickly became a highlight-reel player. He finished as a Calder Trophy runner-up and produced consecutive seasons of 23 goals and 60-plus points early in his career.
Injuries and a coaching shift to a defense-first system stalled his momentum. He endured a broken ankle plus knee and groin problems. Those setbacks contributed to a reduced role.
This season with Philadelphia, Zegras has 22 goals and 54 points in 66 games. Only Travis Konecny has more goals, assists and points on the Flyers. Zegras has split time at center and left wing due to faceoff struggles.
Relations with Anaheim and its players
Despite the trade, Zegras has kept strong ties to Ducks teammates and fans. He said he remains close to several players and appreciates the support he received at the Honda Center.
Defenseman Drew Helleson praised Zegras as a great teammate and noted plans to get together. Jackson LaCombe called his resurgence encouraging. Jamie Drysdale recalled the excitement Zegras brought to Anaheim during tough seasons.
Organizational outcomes and outlook
Both teams have moved forward. Poehling, 27, has become a defensive center and lead penalty killer in Anaheim. He signed a four-year, $15 million extension this month.
The Ducks sit in position to end a seven-year playoff drought. The Flyers appear likely to miss the postseason again, which would mark a sixth straight absence. Still, Philadelphia shows signs it will pursue a long-term deal with Zegras, who is an impending restricted free agent.
What the visit means
Zegras said the upcoming game feels less emotional than his first meeting after the trade. He described the return as a cooler experience and a chance to reconnect with loyal Ducks fans.
He also noted brief conversations with new Ducks coach Joel Quenneville after Quenneville’s May hiring. Both sides seem to have moved on while preserving respect and fond memories.
Wednesday’s game also marks roughly five years since Zegras and Jamie Drysdale scored their first NHL goals within minutes of one another. That moment remains a touchstone for fans who remember the promise those draft picks represented.
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