Zegras Returns from Suspension
Trevor Zegras has now officially served his three-game suspension for a late and high hit to Detroit Red Wings forward Michael Rasmussen in the second period of the Ducks’ 5-4 overtime loss on February 23. For Zegras, who has only produced 16 points (7 goals, 9 assists) in 34 games played during the 2024-25 season, his absence was keenly felt. Despite his relatively modest statistics, Zegras has been a consistent offensive driver for the Ducks and has evolved into a more impactful two-way presence on the ice. Ducks head coach Greg Cronin echoed this sentiment, stating, "We’ll miss Trevor. He’s been terrific this year. If you were to ask me one player that’s probably made the most progress even though his stats don’t reflect it, it’s him."
The Impact of Zegras’ Absence
Zegras underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his knee, suffered on December 4 in a loss to the Vegas Golden Knights. During his 24-game absence, the Ducks struggled, posting a record of 8-13-3. This poor performance left the team perilously close to the bottom of the standings, eight points away from the best lottery odds and nine points away from the second wild card spot in the Western Conference. Upon his return, the Ducks seemed to turn their season around, going 7-2-1 and even entering the playoff race, albeit with slim odds. However, the suspension threw a wrench into their momentum.
Struggles Without Zegras
At the time of the suspension, the Ducks were six points out of the final wild card spot in the Western Conference playoff race, with a game in hand on the Vancouver Canucks. In the week since Zegras’ suspension, the Ducks squandered multiple opportunities to gain ground in the playoff chase. They went 1-2-0 in their three games without Zegras, including a crucial 5-2 victory over the Canucks, the team they are chasing. However, they allowed a 2-0 lead to evaporate against the Buffalo Sabres, the last place team in the Eastern Conference and 29th-ranked team in the NHL.
A Missed Opportunity
Their next game against the 31st-ranked Chicago Blackhawks, who had traded their top defenseman, Seth Jones, just hours before puck drop, provided another significant chance for the Ducks to close the gap. Despite starting the game strong, the Ducks were undone by sloppy defensive coverage, poorly timed penalties from veteran leaders, and an array of turnovers that led to rush chances for the Blackhawks, resulting in an embarrassing 6-3 loss. These losses not only hurt the Ducks’ playoff chances but also highlighted the importance of Zegras’ presence on the ice.
Adjustments and Challenges
In Zegras’ absence, Mason McTavish slid into his regular spot in the lineup on the wing of Leo Carlsson and opposite Alex Killorn. Sam Colangelo was recalled from the San Diego Gulls of the AHL to replace an injured Robby Fabbri and slotted in on the listed third line with Isac Lundestrom and Cutter Gauthier. While managing just two of six points in the last three games didn’t change their status compared to the second wild card spot, the other three teams in the race with the Ducks—Calgary, St. Louis, and Utah—all gained ground on the Canucks, further diminishing the Ducks’ playoff hopes.
A Chance for Redemption
While Zegras’ late hit on Rasmussen was indeed a poor judgment call, his return to the lineup presents a significant opportunity for redemption. The Ducks will travel to Western Canada for a two-game, back-to-back swing to face the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday and the Vancouver Canucks on Wednesday. These games, especially the match against the Canucks, could be pivotal in the Ducks’ playoff chase. Zegras’ return not only bolsters the team’s offensive capabilities but also provides a much-needed morale boost. It’s a chance for him to showcase his importance to his teammates and the organization, atoning for his earlier mistake.
Conclusion
The Ducks’ recent struggles highlight the critical role Trevor Zegras plays in the team’s success. His absence has been a significant factor in their inability to gain ground in the playoff race. As he returns to the lineup, the Ducks will have to capitalize on the opportunities presented, particularly in their upcoming games against the Oilers and Canucks. Zegras’ presence, both on and off the ice, will be crucial as the Ducks seek to keep their playoff hopes alive.
