NHL Rumors: Flyers eyeing to lock $17,250,000 star in shockingly early contract extension, hints Elliotte Friedman

Forward Trevor Zegras is having a special season with the Philadelphia Flyers in terms of performance. Philadelphia acquired him in a trade with the Anaheim Ducks back in June. And under the new coach, Rick Tocchet, Zegras is finding his offensive touch.

Zegras, who is in the final season of his three-year, $17.25 million contract, is currently making an average of $5.75 million in salary every year. After his deal ends, he could be a restricted free agent. However, reportedly, Philly has started the extension process.

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman shared the update about Trevor Zegras on Friday’s episode of the 32 Thoughts podcast.

"I think, this is my guess," Friedman said. [52:50 onwards] "They're talking to him about an extension. I can see it. I believe it. He can sign. It's early. It's only been 14 games. He's happy. They're happy. Obviously, you got to work out something. I think they're talking about an extension already."

This is the last season players can sign eight-year deals before the new NHL CBA rule takes effect. The new rules would allow for only seven-year long-term contracts, in which case players will demand a higher AAV. So, it seems the Flyers are eying to lock in Zegras for the long term, in order to have some salary cap flexibility.

Zegras has started the season well and leads the team with 15 points in 14 games. That includes four goals and 11 assists. He has scored points in 10 of those games. Eight of his points have come on the power play.

His strong play helped the Flyers beat Montreal 5-4 on Tuesday, where he had two assists and scored the shootout winner. The Flyers now have an 8-5-1 record and sit fourth in the Metropolitan Division. Their defense has been solid, allowing 2.57 goals per game. The penalty kill ranks among the league’s best at 87.8 percent. Travis Konecny has also been steady with consistent scoring support.

Philadelphia Flyers' comeback win over the Predators

The Philadelphia Flyers beat the Nashville Predators 3-1 on Thursday. Ryan O’Reilly scored first for Nashville with a deflection; however, Philadelphia erased the lead in the second period.

Still, coach Rick Tocchet said,

"I just didn’t like our start. I thought the first 10 minutes they were all over us... Sometimes you don’t rebound from that tough start we had."

Matvei Michkov tied it for the Philly on a one-timer from Cam York’s pass. Noah Cates gave them a lead with a rebound goal. Konecny scored an empty-net goal late in the game for the final score.

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Edited by Ankit Kumar