NHL Trade Rumors: Ducks' star Mason McTavish linked to Canadiens, which could reshape Montreal's playoff hopes
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A playoff return in 2025 reignited belief in Montreal, but to keep pace, the team knows it must address lingering holes, especially down the middle.
Montreal Canadiens eye Mason McTavish in bid to build a formidable one-two center punch
Selected third overall in 2021, McTavish had his breakout moment last season. His stat line—22 goals and 52 points in 76 games—was not just impressive, but also a sign of what's to come. He logged a career-high average ice time of 16:52, carrying top-six responsibilities with poise.
And yet, despite Anaheim holding over $21 million in cap space, McTavish remains unsigned as a restricted free agent, opening the door for trade speculation.
"I am not sure if he will move eventually, but I am very curious to see what happens with Mason McTavish with the Anaheim Ducks," shared Daily Faceoff's Anthony DiMarco. 'If there is an eventual path to McTavish being moved, you can be sure that there will be no shortage of teams waiting in line to inquire about his services.'
Anaheim Ducks TRADING Mason McTavish To The Montreal Canadiens? | NHL Trade Rumours
Anaheim GM Pat Verbeek has already been busy reshaping his roster, including dealing veteran goaltender John Gibson. His push to reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2026 could spark a 'hockey trade'—moving a young piece like McTavish to bring back immediate-impact talent.
Canadiens need a solution, and Mason McTavish fits the mold
Montreal, meanwhile, is seeking stability behind captain Nick Suzuki. While Suzuki enjoyed a breakout campaign (30 goals, 59 assists), the drop-off behind him at center has been glaring.
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According to The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta, the Canadiens are one of four teams seriously interested in McTavish—and it's clear why.
The Ontario native not only outproduced every other Canadiens center not named Suzuki, but he also carried more responsibility and showed signs of elite upside. Adding McTavish would instantly give Montreal a foundation for the future—a one-two punch of Suzuki and McTavish that could anchor the franchise for the next decade.
Financially, the Canadiens are in a strong position to make it happen. A $7–8 million deal fits within their cap space, and trade assets like Patrick Laine or Mike Matheson could be enough to make the trade work.
If Montreal truly aims to cement itself as a long-term contender, pulling the trigger on McTavish may not just be a smart move— it might be essential.
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