Zhilkin has taken a meaningful step forward in his third Manitoba season, posting 10 goals and 11 assists in 49 games – a notable uptick from his prior two years that can largely be attributed to a jump in shot volume, now averaging two per game. His deployment alongside the likes of Jaret Anderson-Dolan, Colby Barlow, and Phil Di Giuseppe points clearly toward a future bottom six role with Winnipeg. That may sound modest, but as many as three bottom six jobs could be available at Jets training camp this fall following an underachieving season from the big club, and Zhilkin will be in the conversation. One year remaining on his contract gives him a clear runway to make his case. Not a high-upside fantasy asset, but a realistic NHL bottom sixer in the making for a team that may need to shake things up down the lineup.

Zhilkin finished his second season with the Manitoba Moose in the American Hockey League, much like his rookie season statistically. He played in 53 games and produced 10 points (three goals and seven assists). A skilled skater who excels in the transition game, moving pucks up ice with his quick feet and shifty hands. Needs to work on his overall hockey IQ, defensive skill, and playmaking to be considered for a roster spot in the NHL. He has two seasons left on his current contract with the Jets. Until he improves at the AHL level, there is not much to see here; therefore, there is no need to consider Zhilkin in fantasy hockey, even as a deep dynasty prospect stash.

With only one assist in seven games with the Manitoba Moose to start the 2024-25 season, Zhilkin has missed practice time in mid-November and will be out of the Manitoba Moose lineup for three to four weeks with a knee issue.

Zhilkin attended the Winnipeg Jets 2024 Development Camp on July 3-7, 2024, and will participate in the 2024 Young Stars Classic in Penticton, B.C, September 13-16, 2024, with the Winnipeg Jets. After season-ending shoulder surgery ended his first pro season in 2023-24, Zhilkin will look to remain healthy to improve in his second season with the Manitoba Moose during the 2024-25 season.

Manitoba Moose head coach Mark Morrison announced on February 28, 2024, that Zhilkin would miss the remainder of the 2023-24 season after having shoulder surgery.