> At a Glance
> – Trevor Zegras scored twice against his former team in a 5-2 Flyers win
> – Philadelphia moves into 3rd place in Metro at season’s halfway point
> – Injuries hit Flyers: Brink and Drysdale left the game hurt
> – Why it matters: This marks a 5-game turnaround from last season’s midpoint, signaling a potential playoff push
Trevor Zegras made his first game against the Ducks a memorable one, scoring two goals including a power-play tally that gave the Flyers a lead they wouldn’t surrender in Tuesday’s 5-2 victory at Xfinity Mobile Arena.
Zegras Sticks It to Former Team
The 21-year-old center showed no mercy against his old squad, burying two excellent shots to pace Philadelphia’s attack. His power-play goal broke a 1-1 tie late in the first period and ignited both the crowd and his teammates.
The energy was palpable as Zegras celebrated his second tally, knowing he’d delivered a statement performance. Through 41 games with his new club, he’s now accumulated 41 points – exactly a point-per-game pace.
Supporting Cast Steps Up
While Zegras stole headlines, others contributed crucial goals:
- Cam York found the back of the net
- Travis Sanheim added another marker
- Nikita Grebenkin sealed it with an empty-netter
The Flyers dominated despite missing Matvei Michkov, who sat out after taking a puck to his left foot last weekend. The team received positive news on his condition earlier in the day.
Physical Game Takes Toll
Philadelphia paid a price for the victory as two regulars exited with injuries:
Bobby Brink absorbed a hard, high hit from Jansen Harkins just 2:38 into the contest. Noah Cates immediately defended his teammate, dropping the gloves with Harkins.
Later, Jamie Drysdale took a dangerous hit from Ross Johnston while nowhere near the puck. Johnston received a game misconduct while Drysdale needed help from head athletic trainer Tommy Alva to leave the ice.
Goaltending and Special Teams
Dan Vladar stopped 16 of 18 shots to earn the win. Both Ducks goals came on power plays, but Philadelphia’s penalty kill held firm when it mattered most.
Lukas Dostal faced a barrage, turning aside 33 of 37 Flyers shots in the losing effort.
Gauthier’s Return
Cutter Gauthier faced Flyers fans for the second time since being traded nearly two years ago. He heard boos throughout, especially after opening the scoring with a first-period power-play goal.
The atmosphere wasn’t as intense as his initial return last season, but the building buzzed whenever he touched the puck.
Contract Update
Christian Dvorak signed a five-year, $25.75 million extension on Monday, then assisted on Zegras’ first goal. The 29-year-old center has provided stability down the middle that Philadelphia desperately needed.
General manager Danny Briere explained the decision: “He’s a good hockey player that makes us a better team.”
Standings Impact
The victory vaults Philadelphia into third place in the Metropolitan Division at the season’s midpoint. Here’s how this year’s start compares to last:
| Season | Record at Midpoint |
|---|---|
| 2024-25 | 22-12-7 |
| 2023-24 | 17-19-5 |
The five-game improvement signals significant progress under head coach Rick Tocchet.
Looking Ahead
The teams will meet again March 18 at Honda Center in Anaheim. Before then, the Flyers host the Maple Leafs Thursday at 7 p.m. ET.
Key Takeaways
- Zegras delivered instant offense against his former franchise, showing why Philadelphia acquired him
- Injuries are piling up at a crucial point in the season
- Special teams battle saw both clubs score twice with the man advantage
- Playoff positioning is tightening as Philadelphia leapfrogs into third place
The Flyers have transformed from a team struggling at the midway point last season to legitimate postseason contenders, with Tuesday’s emotional victory serving as the latest evidence of their evolution.
