Anaheim Ducks complete major move with Trevor Zegras
The Anaheim Ducks faced a major setback as they've officially moved center Trevor Zegras and rookie defenseman Pavel Mintyukov to the injury reserve, they both sustained long-term injuries against the Predators on Tuesday night.
Zegras is set to undergo surgery for a fractured ankle, sidelining him for six to eight weeks, while Mintyukov will be out for six weeks with a separated shoulder.
Zegras has struggled with both health and consistency this season, missing 20 consecutive games earlier and scoring only four goals and three assists in 20 games since his return.
The 22-year-old faced challenges with contentious contract negotiations in the summer, leading to a missed training camp. Despite returning from injury, recent struggles and trade rumors surrounded Zegras before the unfortunate injury.
On the other hand, Mintyukov, the Ducks' 10th overall pick from 2022, had been a positive surprise on the defensive end with two goals and 17 assists in 40 games. Besides contributing offensively, the 20-year-old brought a physical presence and solid defensive play.
With Mintyukov sidelined, the Ducks are expected to turn to newly acquired Gustav Lindstrom to fill the void.
Ducks' general manager Pat Verbeek has been active in the trade market recently, and with Zegras out, it remains to be seen if trade talks will be reignited once the center is back to full health.
The Ducks face challenges ahead but will look to regroup and adapt in the absence of key players.
| POLL | ||
Do you think Trevor Zegras will ever be the same skater after this major surgery? | ||
| Yes | 48 | 46.6 % |
| No | 55 | 53.4 % |
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