The Philadelphia Flyers are scratching and clawing to secure one of the playoff spots in what has become an incredibly crowded Eastern Conference. On Sunday, the Flyers defeated the playoff-bound Dallas Stars 2-1 in overtime, thanks to a clutch goal from Trevor Zegras. Now, the Flyers are just two points out of a Wild Card spot, but are tied with the Ottawa Senators and Detroit Red Wings.
Whatever the end result may be, the Flyers do have to get to work in the offseason. One of their more important tasks is to try and lock in Zegras on a contract extension, as the forward is a restricted free agent. The trade this past offseason has panned out for the Flyers, now it's up to them to try and secure Zegras for the foreseeable future.
During the latest episode of the 32 Thoughts Podcast, Sportsnet NHL insider Elliotte Friedman provided an update on Zegras and his contract status. Friedman says he believes the two sides are discussing a contract, and that a deal will eventually be agreed upon. But, he thinks Zegras' price tag is only increasing.
Elliotte Friedman believes Flyers and Trevor Zegras will finalize contract extension
"I think the Flyers and Zegras have started talking. I don't know how close they are, but I think they've definitely been talking. I think I watched Zegras score, and I'm like, yeah, this price isn't going to go down," said Friedman. "I know it's three-on-three overtime, and it doesn't always mix very well, but he's a really good player for them. And the fit has been excellent. They'e been good for him, and he's been good for them, and I think they're working away at it, and I do think it'll get done. I don't think there's a question that's going to get done. But I still think the two sides are grinding away at each other a bit here."
This is a promising update for Flyers fans. They have been lacking some top-tier scoring after last season, and they managed to get a hold of Zegras. Luckily for them, the Anaheim Ducks were willing to trade him away.
Zegras shined early on in his career with the Ducks, etching his name as one of the top up-and-coming players in the league. Ultimately, injuries, coaching changes, and a decision to change his position halted the momentum he had. Luckily for Zegras, the Flyers called, and the change of scenery has done him wonders.
So far this season, Zegras has 23 goals to his credit, which is tied for the most he's put up in a single season. Not to mention, he has 59 points, putting him just six points from tying his personal record (65 in 2022-23 season). This all comes with just nine games left in the regular season.
The Flyers have been on fire in their last 10 games, going 8-1-1. Zegras helped during that stretch, scoring two goals and notching five assists. They'll need him to continue this play, and if necessary, have heroic moments such as his overtime goal against a legitimate Stanley Cup contender in the Stars.
This offseason, it appears it will be a matter of when, not if, the Flyers and Zegras reach an agreement on a new contract.