Philadelphia Flyers’ Trevor Zegras Can Maximize Matvei Michkov’s Talents – The Hockey Writers – Philadelphia Flyers

The Philadelphia Flyers are gambling on Trevor Zegras. At 24 years old, a player who made headlines in 2021–22 and 2022–23 for his skill is theoretically just entering his prime. After two campaigns in the wrong direction production-wise, he’s eyeing a return to greatness.

Though it’s not entirely to blame for his point-scoring reduction, Zegras has predominantly played on the wing since 2023–24. By his own admission, he’s best down the middle, and that’s likely where he plays in Philadelphia.

The Flyers have a number of wingers who could benefit from a center like Zegras. But if Matvei Michkov is his main partner in crime, the two can do astounding work together for years to come.

To answer why, we first have to break down Zegras’ game. What makes him special?

Zegras’ Creativity

One of Zegras’ X-factor traits is his creativity. Pulling off lacrosse-style goals and assists made the broader hockey world aware of this, but he employs creative tactics in his everyday game.

In order to get the most out of a puck touch, Zegras isn’t afraid to do something a little crazy. He’ll stop at nothing to get a pass through, even if it means engaging head-on with multiple defenders or attempting spin-o-ramas. While, as noted, the past couple of seasons haven’t seen him reach the same heights as his rookie and sophomore campaigns, he’s still playmaking at a high level. That didn’t go away.

Here are Zegras’ microstats from the 2024-25 season. Passing metrics where they should be, as usual not creating enough chances for himself to score at a strong level. pic.twitter.com/piKTn5gQbD

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) June 23, 2025

Zegras does a good job of not killing possessions by depending on his creativity. He creates most of his offense through other means, but a play is never dead if he has the puck.

Zegras’ Isolation Supremacy

Only a handful of players can beat a defender cleanly on a 1-on-1 rush. While the modern NHL forward is uber-skilled, defensemen don’t get beaten in isolation, especially if their opposition lacks elite speed. At least, that’s the case until Zegras hops over the boards.

What number Trevor Zegras (@tzegras11) highlight-reel move are we up to…? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/aRKHzTJn1J

— NHL (@NHL) March 16, 2022

Zegras possesses the skill to dance defensemen out of their skates off the rush, even with a top…