This summer, the Toronto Maple Leafs have become a focal point in NHL trade speculation, with one of the buzzworthy names being Anaheim Ducks forward Mason McTavish. On a recent show, analysts Nick Alberga and Jay Rosehill discussed possible trade targets for the Leafs, emphasizing listener suggestions and outlining their top three prospects. Among these, McTavish stood out as a player who could fill a crucial role for Toronto, particularly as a future replacement for center John Tavares. The conversation around a Mason McTavish Maple Leafs trade has gained momentum as fans and analysts assess how the team might evolve strategically.

Why Mason McTavish Could Transition Into Tavares’ Role

Nick Alberga highlighted McTavish’s versatility, noting that he is an effective player both at center and wing. This flexibility, Alberga explained, makes him an attractive option for the Leafs as they consider who will eventually take over John Tavares’ position at second center. Alberga pointed out that the team would ideally want someone ready to inherit the role, ensuring a smooth transition when Tavares shifts to a different position or role within the lineup.

“I just think this guy checks way too many boxes,” Alberga said (45:24), via “Leafs Morning Take.” “And you can play the wing. He can play up the middle. I think ideally, you’re looking for somebody for John Tavares to pass the torch to when it comes to the 2C position.

“And I think McTavish is a prime illustration of that type of player, where down the road, whether it’s next year or two years from now, you want JT in the 3C hole, or you want him on the wing. I think it makes that transition easier when you have a guy like Kadri or a guy like Mason McTavish, who’s just 22.”

At just 22 years old, McTavish’s age and ability to play multiple forward roles make him well-suited to meet the Leafs’ future needs, complementing current team members like Nazem Kadri.

McTavish’s Performance and Contract Outlook

In the 2024-25 NHL season, Mason McTavish had his best campaign by recording 22 goals and 30 assists over 76 games, averaging close to 17 minutes of ice time per game. Drafted third overall in 2021, he has become a vital piece of Anaheim Ducks’ rebuilding plan. Despite his growth, McTavish has yet to fully break out as a star, which leaves room for the Maple Leafs to consider acquiring him before he reaches his peak performance.

Alberga suggested that McTavish is on track to sign a significant new contract soon, though it is uncertain whether that deal will be with Anaheim or elsewhere. The possibility of an offer sheet appears unlikely at this time, but the player’s impending contract negotiations make for an intriguing trade prospect.

“He’s going to get paid,” Alberga said on Friday, via “Leafs Morning Take.” “I mean, I don’t know if it’s going to be with Anaheim or somewhere else. Doesn’t sound like an offer sheet is going to be in the mix here this summer. He’s going to make his money.

“That’s sort of what my approach would look like if I was Brad Treliving trying to find a guy who’s ready to pop off”

Potential Impact of Adding McTavish to the Maple Leafs

With players like Matthew Knies offering future potential, adding Mason McTavish could significantly enhance the Leafs’ offensive depth and lineup flexibility. His skill set and age align with what the team might need for a transitional phase following the eventual repositioning of John Tavares. While no concrete moves have been made, the idea of pursuing McTavish fits a long-term strategy for the Leafs as one of their key trade targets this offseason.

Should the deal come to fruition, McTavish’s arrival in Toronto might provide a vital boost in their quest to maintain competitive momentum, especially in key middle-lineup roles. Fans and analysts will watch closely in the coming months to see if the Maple Leafs’ front office decides to act on these suggestions and make McTavish a cornerstone of their future roster.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Is Mason McTavish Craig’s son?

A. In the past three months, Mason McTavish’s standing among draft-eligible players has increased significantly. His father used to play for the Calgary Flames, but he is not related to Craig MacTavish, a former executive with the Edmonton Oilers. McTavish is a large center known for scoring goals and has a wide range of impressive skills.