Zellweger Traded To Buffalo

Photo: NHL

By Michael Walters

The Anaheim Ducks announced today they traded Olen Zellweger to the Buffalo Sabres for the second round 45th overall pick in the 2026 NHL entry draft and Anton Wahlberg.

Zellweger was drafted by Anaheim in the second round, 34th overall in the 2021 NHL entry draft. He made his NHL debut during the 2023-24 season playing in 26 games and recording 9 total points (2 G + 7 A). He would play the next two full seasons for a total of 164 games. During his time in Anaheim he posted 51 total points (16 G + 35 A).

Despite his fast skating and ability to create scoring chances he found himself being rotated in and out of the lineup with Pavel Mintyukov during the 2024-25 campaign. He became a more regular starter in the past season, but the depth on the left side of the defense got more crowded towards the end of the season with Tyson Hinds being called up in March. Zellweger saw less time on the power play and more time on the penalty kill. He did not play in any games against Edmonton in the playoffs and then played three of the six games against Vegas.

It seemed at one point that Minty was going to be traded, but then that trade noise died down. Even then it still seemed like either Minty or Zelly would get moved with Hinds, Tristan Luneau, and Stian Solberg waiting in the wings. Ian Moore also emerged this season playing both on offense and defense.

Anton Wahlberg was drafted in the second round 39th overall by Buffalo in the 2023 NHL entry draft. He has spent the last three season in the AHL with the Rochester Americans. He has played in 140 games and posted 72 total points (21 G + 52 A)

He brings good size at 6’4″ and 205 pounds. He is a center, who could play wing as well. He skates well, will go into the dirty areas, and has a solid forecheck. He has a decent two-way game and is solid defensively, though his offensive abilities aren’t spectacular.

Walhberg seems like a typical player General Manager Pat Verbeek would want on his team. He seems to be in the category of a Tim Washe, Nathan Gaucher, or Jansen Harkins.

Analysis:

I have mixed feelings about this trade. It seemed like the writing was on the wall with Zellweger towards the end of the season and in the playoffs. It shouldn’t be a surprise Zelly was traded, but Walhberg as a return is underwhelming at first glance. Wahlberg should be able to make it to the NHL level, but when and at what capacity? His role will likely be a bottom six center. Next season he will probably be in San Diego to start the season. He has two years left on his ELC.

The Ducks did get another draft pick in the second round, which could be used in a future deal. The second round isn’t until tomorrow so there is some time if Verbeek wants to move that pick or keep it and move the 50th overall pick. There have already been rumors that the New York Rangers and St. Louis Blues were both really interested in Mason McTavish.

I don’t hate this trade, but I don’t love it either. I am hoping there is another trade coming for a player the Ducks can use now to make a strong push for the playoffs next season.

The Ducks gained draft capital and have two second picks to try to trade away. Here is a breakdown of their current picks:

2nd Round – 45th and 50th Overall

3rd Round – 82nd Overall

4th Round – 117th Overall

5th Round – 146th Overall

6th Round – 178th Overall

7th Round – 210th Overall

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June 26th, 2026