Montreal Canadiens supporters are closely monitoring the contract situation of Mason McTavish, a restricted free agent after completing his initial three-year deal. The Anaheim Ducks have yet to offer him a new contract, raising questions about his future and possible movement, which has sparked trade speculation involving the Canadiens.
NHL insider Anthony Di Marco highlighted the Canadiens as a potential destination should McTavish become available in a trade. This interest comes amid Anaheim’s recent roster changes and ongoing restructuring efforts.
Montreal’s Interest in McTavish Amid Anaheim’s Center Position Changes
The Ducks’ decision to trade Trevor Zegras to the Philadelphia Flyers in late June has intensified the spotlight on their plans at center. McTavish, selected third overall by Anaheim in the 2021 NHL Draft, delivered a strong performance in the 2024-25 season, recording 22 goals and 30 assists. At 22 years old, he also contributed six power-play goals while averaging nearly 17 minutes per game.
The Canadiens face a pressing need for additional depth at center beyond their captain, Nick Suzuki. Although prospects like Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook show promise, their long-term impact remains uncertain. Di Marco indicated Montreal is likely to follow McTavish’s contract status attentively.
“I am very curious… what happens with Mason McTavish (and) the Anaheim Ducks,” Di Marco wrote.
“If… McTavish (is) being moved, you can be sure that there will be no shortage of teams waiting in line to … (for) his services,” Di Marco wrote.
“The first one… Montreal Canadiens, …the Canadiens are a club that I’d reckon would be keeping close tabs on (Mason) McTavish’s availability.”
While no formal trade discussions have been reported, the evolving nature of restricted free agent negotiations leaves room for developments in the weeks or months ahead.
Ducks General Manager’s Negotiation Strategy and Its Effect on McTavish’s Future
Earlier in July, NHL commentator Frankie Corrado described Anaheim Ducks’ general manager Pat Verbeek’s firm negotiating approach, referencing his handling of contract talks with players like Troy Terry and Jamie Drysdale. Corrado suggested this method might extend to McTavish’s current situation.
According to Corrado, the Ducks may have issued McTavish a clear contract proposal with defined terms, expecting acceptance. His remarks portray a direct strategy focused on building the team within specific budget parameters.
“We’re building something here. Here’s the number to fit in, and if you don’t like it, don’t play, or we’ll figure something out.” Corrado said on TSN 1200 podcast. “But Mason McTavish is a very good player, obviously.”
Corrado also noted McTavish’s loyalty through challenging periods and emphasized that Anaheim aims to retain him, although on their conditions.
McTavish’s career NHL record includes 140 points in 229 games, showing steady improvement and becoming a key figure in the Ducks’ rebuild effort.
Implications of McTavish’s Potential Trade for Both Teams
If a trade involving Mason McTavish were to materialize, Montreal could gain a skilled young center to strengthen its lineup, addressing a pressing positional gap. For Anaheim, the move could represent a recalibration of assets following recent roster shifts like trading Zegras.
As negotiations continue, the Canadiens’ attention to this situation indicates their intent to bolster their center depth, while the Ducks’ firm stance on contract terms reflects their broader rebuilding strategy. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining McTavish’s path forward in the NHL.