Even though he only just turned 19 and had an up-and-down (if at times jaw-dropping) season at Boston University, Trevor Zegras is about to turn pro. The Anaheim Ducks have announced a three-year entry-level contract for the star freshman. Ducks GM Bob Murray had this to say about his newest forward:
We are happy to get this contract done and start Trevor’s professional career. He’s got quite a bit of work ahead of him, but we know he’s got the talent and intelligence to be an impactful NHL player.
Even if his freshman season was a bit rocky at times, there’s absolutely zero doubt that Zegras has the kind of talent to be a dominant player at the NHL level. The ninth-overall pick from 2019 recorded 36 points in 33 games for the Terriers, earning him a selection to the Hockey East All-Rookie team. Perhaps even more impressive than his performance in college was the show he put on at the World Juniors, recording nine primary assists (several which rendered spectators speechless) in limited ice time.
Make no mistake, Zegras’ playmaking ability would fit in on an NHL powerplay right now. The rest of his game still needs some polish, but there is no ceiling in sight for the Ducks’ newest star prospect. Whether he steps right into the NHL or spends some time honing his skills in the minor leagues isn’t clear at this point, but getting him into their organization and development program as soon as possible allows the Anaheim front office to control his destiny.
Again, Zegras won’t turn 20 until next March, meaning his contract could potentially slide another year if he doesn’t play in ten NHL games during the 2020-21 season. He will however be eligible to play in the AHL—the 20-year old age threshold is only for players drafted out of the CHL.
I would be shocked if he is not on the Ducks
roster next year. Could be a Calder favorite.
While I’d ordinarily balk at such high praise for someone who hasn’t scored a goal in the NHL, I’m a downtrodden Ducks fan, so I’ll take your prediction as hope.