The Philadelphia Flyers have made a major move ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft, acquiring dynamic center Trevor Zegras from the Anaheim Ducks in a blockbuster trade. In exchange for Zegras, the Flyers sent forward Ryan Poehling, the 45th overall pick in the 2025 draft, and a 2026 fourth-round pick to Anaheim. This trade comes as the Flyers look to bolster their roster with high-end skill and creativity, addressing a clear organizational need at center as they continue their rebuilding process.

Zegras, 24, was originally drafted ninth overall by the Ducks in 2019 and quickly established himself as one of the league’s most exciting young forwards. He posted back-to-back seasons with over 60 points in 2021-22 (61 points) and 2022-23 (65 points), earning a spot on the NHL All-Rookie Team and leading Anaheim in multiple offensive categories during that span. However, injuries have slowed his momentum in recent years, limiting him to just 88 games over the past two seasons. Despite these setbacks, Zegras still managed 12 goals and 32 points in 57 games last season, maintaining a respectable 0.56 points per game average.

The Flyers are hoping that a change of scenery will help Zegras regain his elite form. General Manager Daniel Briere has emphasized the team’s shift from subtracting to adding talent, and Zegras fits perfectly into Philadelphia’s timeline as a skilled playmaker entering his prime. His arrival also reunites him with defenseman Jamie Drysdale, who was acquired from Anaheim in a major trade last year. The Flyers now have a young, creative center who can drive offense and energize their lineup.

On the other side, Anaheim receives Ryan Poehling, a speedy, two-way center who tallied 31 points in 68 games for Philadelphia last season, along with valuable draft capital to aid their ongoing rebuild. Zegras, entering the final year of his contract at $5.75 million before becoming a restricted free agent, represents a significant asset for Philadelphia as they look to accelerate their return to contention.