NHL Trade Rumors: Montreal Canadiens eye Mason McTavish, but Anaheim Ducks' asking price for star center is steep
Trade chatter is swirling around Anaheim Ducks center Mason McTavish, with the Montreal Canadiens emerging as a frequent link. While Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek has made it clear he wants to keep the 22-year-old, reports indicate he's open to moving McTavish if the return is right.
That return, however, comes with a high price tag, one that could force Montreal into a tough decision.
Anaheim Ducks set high asking price for Mason McTavish, targeting Canadiens prospect
David Reinbacher
According to multiple reports, including Jimmy Murphy's, Verbeek would only consider parting with McTavish for a young, right-handed defenseman capable of playing in a top-four role immediately, with the potential to grow into a first-pairing cornerstone.
Within the Canadiens' system, that description points directly to David Reinbacher, the fifth overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft.
The 20-year-old is widely viewed as Montreal's top defense prospect and a key part of their future blue line.
The Ducks' reported request is straightforward, Reinbacher for McTavish — but it's a steep cost for the Habs, who have been cautious about moving their top young assets.
Why Mason McTavish could be the perfect addition to the Montreal Canadiens' roster
McTavish, 22, stands 6-foot-2, weighs 220 pounds, and plays a strong two-way game. Selected third overall by Anaheim in 2021, he has already compiled 140 points in 229 NHL games, including 60 goals.
Last season, he tallied 52 points in 76 games, often in a third-line role and with limited power play time, suggesting even more offensive upside.
For Montreal, McTavish would slot perfectly as a second-line center behind Nick Suzuki, giving the team a reliable scoring threat and added size down the middle. His combination of skill, strength, and playoff-style play makes him an appealing target, but surrendering Reinbacher could leave a long-term hole on the right side of their defense.
The McTavish-to-Montreal speculation highlights a classic NHL trade dilemma, balancing the allure of an NHL-ready young star against the value of a blue-chip prospect. While McTavish could address an immediate need for the Canadiens, Anaheim's high asking price ensures this deal, if it ever happens, will require serious consideration from both sides. Until then, the trade rumors are likely to remain a hot topic.
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Rasmus Andersson breaks silence on Calgary Flames trade rumors, contract status, and offseason speculation
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