Ducks RFA Trevor Zegras Taking Firm Stance on Contract Situation

After an impressive two-plus years to begin his Anaheim Ducks career, restricted free agent Trevor Zegras has proven himself to be a core piece of the team going into the future. But as a restricted free agent without arbitration rights, he's pretty limited on what he can expect to negotiate for a contract for the coming season. 

Even with little leverage, the 22-year-old is nevertheless taking a strong stand, saying he "won't return to Anaheim until he has a new contract," according to NHL.com reporter Dan Rosen.

"I feel like it's all kind of up in the air," Zegras said recently. "Obviously, I'd love to get back to play as my teammates get back but that's kind of out of my control at the moment. I've got a pretty good setup here in terms of working out and skating. Wherever we are with the contract, I know I'll be doing good stuff to help me get ready for the season."

Zegras has been working out in Connecticut, though has met with new Ducks coach Greg Cronin on multiple occasions. 

Coming off his entry-level contract as an RFA, Zegras led the Ducks with 65 points (23 goals, 42 assists) in 81 games last season. And he watched earlier this month as teammate and fellow star forward Troy Terry was rewarded with a 7-year, $49M contract. Terry, though, has five full seasons in Anaheim under his belt, Zegras just a little over two. 

A shorter-term bridge deal might be in the cards for Zegras at this point, as suggested by Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli. After that, he'd have full arb rights. 

"Hopefully we get something done soon," Zegras said. "I do miss California and my teammates, so it would be nice to get back there."

Photo: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports