The Philadelphia Flyers made a major splash on Monday, acquiring Trevor Zegras from the Anaheim Ducks in a bold move just days before the NHL Draft. One of the biggest reasons for his enthusiasm? A reunion with his best friend and former teammate, Jamie Drysdale.
Flyers make big splash for Zergas
“I’m really excited to be reunited with Drysdale,” Zegras said with a grin. “He actually got a hole-in-one yesterday.” Zegras shared talking about Drysdale’s golf game. The two were teammates in Anaheim and also played together for Team USA, winning gold at the 2021 World Junior Championship.
On the ice, Zegras confirmed he’ll be playing center for the Flyers next season — a position he’s very familiar with. “I’ve played center pretty much my whole career until two seasons ago,” he explained. Zegras stated that’s a position he’s comfortable with.
That could be a significant boost for Philadelphia. The Flyers have lacked depth down the middle, especially with Sean Couturier still working his way back to form. Zegras, who posted 61 points (23 goals, 38 assists) in 2022–23 before battling injuries in 2023–24, brings creativity and offensive upside that the Flyers have sorely needed.
When asked about playing in Philadelphia, Zegras was fired up:
“I’m excited as heck to be a Flyer,” he said. “I’m not really sure where things went wrong in Anaheim, but this is an amazing opportunity.”
He also had high praise for the Flyers fanbase:
“I think that building is awesome. The fans are passionate, and hopefully I can get on their good side pretty quickly. I’m excited to be there.”
General Manager Danny Brière also spoke following the trade, calling the move a “statement” but noting he held firm on keeping the team’s first-round picks.
“We’ve worked too hard to get those picks,” Brière said. “But when a player like Zegras becomes available and the price is right, you have to listen.”
The Flyers now land a former ninth-overall pick (2019) with elite hands, vision, and swagger—an offensive talent who still has room to grow. With the NHL Draft fast approaching, this move signals that Philadelphia isn’t standing still—they’re building something bold, and Zegras is now a central part of it.
Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
