Mason McTavish’s name is circulating in NHL trade rumors, with suggestions that a change of scenery could be beneficial for the young Anaheim Ducks forward. Despite concerns and a potentially high asking price, McTavish, still only 23, is under contract and considered a valuable asset.
Chris Johnston of The Chris Johnston Show discussed McTavish’s situation, noting that this past season did not meet expectations for either the player or the Ducks. After signing an extension and missing training camp, McTavish experienced a dip in offensive production and ice time, even being a healthy scratch on occasion. Johnston suggests that a fresh start might be advantageous.
The Ducks face salary cap management challenges with the upcoming contract negotiations for prospects like Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier. As their young core matures, players will command larger paychecks. McTavish, a former third overall pick, is viewed as an intriguing name due to his youth and potential, despite questions about his skating and on-ice awareness.
There was interest in McTavish around the trade deadline, and discussions have reportedly intensified. Julian McKenzie mentioned that there is significant intrigue surrounding McTavish in Ottawa, as he is a local player. It’s understood that McTavish has a connection to Ottawa, having skated there during contract negotiations last offseason.
Johnston emphasized that the asking price for McTavish, like many available players this offseason, is high. With limited impactful trade options, teams are looking to leverage assets like McTavish, who is signed to a contract, offering cost certainty and the potential to acquire a player in their prime years. Despite a challenging recent season, McTavish is seen as a valuable prospect whose best years are likely ahead.
The rarity of available centers further increases the curiosity surrounding McTavish, with teams actively exploring potential fits. It’s also acknowledged that if McTavish remains with the Ducks, he could have a strong season, as the team will eventually rely on his contributions.
Translation to English:
Mason McTavish’s name is out there, and a change of scenery might do him well. There are concerns about McTavish, and the prices are high, but he’s still only 23 and under contract for a while.
Chris Johnston discussed on The Chris Johnston Show that Mason McTavish of the Anaheim Ducks has had his name in the rumor mill, and a change of scenery might benefit him. Johnston noted that this past season didn’t go as planned for McTavish or the Ducks. He signed an extension, missed part of training camp, secured a significant contract, but then saw a decline in his offensive output and ice time, even being a healthy scratch a couple of times during the season and playoffs.
Johnston suggested that McTavish’s name is indeed circulating, and a fresh start could be beneficial. He pointed out that Anaheim has to consider signing Leo Carlsson and that Cutter Gauthier is also nearing a point where he’ll need a new contract. The Ducks, though still young in age, have players who are becoming primetime talents and will demand substantial paychecks, necessitating careful cap management.
McTavish is considered an interesting trade candidate due to his youth and his status as a former third overall pick. While he’s no longer being judged solely on his draft position, his professional performance is under scrutiny. Johnston mentioned that some concerns or issues in Anaheim regarding McTavish might involve his skating ability and speed, or a perceived lack thereof, and potentially his awareness on the ice.
There was some buzz around McTavish at the trade deadline, though Johnston isn’t sure if anything came close to fruition. He believes there’s currently a heightened level of discussion about his situation, with teams evaluating whether acquiring him would be a good fit.
Julian McKenzie added that there are individuals in Ottawa who have been intrigued by the prospect of a local player like McTavish returning home, making it a potential destination. Johnston admitted he was unaware McTavish was from Ottawa.
McKenzie recalled that when McTavish was going through contract issues with Anaheim last offseason, he returned to Ottawa to skate, which is how he remembers it.
Johnston emphasized that, as with most players discussed on the board, the asking prices are high. He noted that prices are elevated for a reason, as there aren’t many players readily available through other means this offseason. While there are many unrestricted free agents (UFAs), teams looking for more impactful additions often turn to trades, making it the primary route this summer.
Johnston explained that holding a player with appeal allows teams to generate a bidding war and maximize their return. He highlighted that McTavish’s appeal is amplified by the fact that he is signed, offering cost certainty, similar to the situation with Matthew Knies. This means acquiring him involves buying into his prime years and upside, as he’s signed through his 20s.
Despite coming off what was arguably not his best NHL season, and acknowledging that it was a personally challenging year for McTavish, he is still considered a prime asset. Johnston believes that even with a slight dip in his value, his age (early 20s) suggests that his performance in his 24th or 25th seasons will likely be better, regardless of where he plays.
Johnston concluded by saying that if McTavish isn’t traded, it wouldn’t be surprising if he has a good season with Anaheim, as the team will eventually need his contributions. However, the Ducks are actively listening to offers, and given the scarcity of centers available, teams are doubly curious about a potential fit with McTavish.
