According to Chris Johnston on The Chris Johnston Show, Anaheim Ducks center Mason McTavish is generating significant interest from NHL teams seeking to bolster their middle-six forward depth. Despite signing a six-year contract extension in September, McTavish’s situation on a rising Ducks team has piqued the curiosity of league insiders regarding his future availability.
While the Ducks have a clear upward trajectory, McTavish’s season was not without its challenges, including being scratched a couple of times during the regular season and playoffs. This, coupled with the Ducks’ upcoming financial commitments for young stars like Leo Carlsson, and potentially Connor Bedard and Macklin Celebrini in the future, could present an opportunity for the team to address other needs by exploring trade options for McTavish.
Johnston suggests that the Ducks are not in a desperate situation and don’t have to move McTavish. However, given the potential for high-value contracts for the next wave of young talent, including Leo Carlsson who could command a significant figure, and other players like Cutter Gaucher needing new deals, moving McTavish might be a strategic move to reallocate resources and address other roster needs.
Teams are reportedly interested in McTavish, not as a reclamation project, but as a player with significant potential who could thrive with more opportunities in a different system. At 23, he is seen as a player who could become a top-six center, offering impact and fitting a profile that many teams, including potentially the Calgary Flames, are looking to fill.
McTavish’s work ethic is highlighted as a major positive. Despite past questions about his skating, he is described as a dedicated player who puts in maximum effort. This dedication, combined with his contract situation and potential for future value, makes him an attractive proposition for several NHL clubs. While it’s not a certainty he will be traded, the interest is substantial, and the Ducks will have to weigh the benefits of keeping him against the possibility of using him to improve the team elsewhere.
