The Anaheim Ducks are preparing for the 2025-26 NHL season. However, one of the more important pieces of their team has remained without a contract for much of training camp. Mason McTavish became a restricted free agent on July 1. But he entered camp without a contract as the two sides tried to bridge the gap at the neogtiating table.
Talks dragged on for so long that trade rumors began circulating about the Ducks star. The interest in McTavish certainly makes a lot of sense. He scored 22 goals and 52 points this past season, coming just three points shy of Troy Terry for the team lead in points.
McTavish already has three full seasons under his belt despite being just 22 years old. He certainly has the potential to become one of the better playmakers in the league. And he looks the part of a potential breakout candidate for Anaheim this season.
Teams likely put in some calls on the young star. However, the Ducks wanted to get a contract done with McTavish as soon as they could. On Saturday, Anaheim accomplished just that.
McTavish and the Ducks are in agreement on a six-year contract with an annual average value of $7 million. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman was the first to report that a deal was close. The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun was the first to report that the deal had been agreed to.
Ducks Resist Potential Trade Offers
It’s certainly no secret that teams around the NHL are seeking centers. It’s the most valuable position on the ice among the forward lines. A great center can conduct the offense, generate scoring chances, and drive play up the ice.
That’s part of the reason why McTavish’s name entered the rumor mill. To public knowledge, there was no trade request on the part of the 22-year-old. It didn’t even seem as if talks broke down to the point that this was a legitimate possibility.
The likelihood is that teams checked in on his availability. It’s the nature of the business when talks drag on like this. And to be fair, Anaheim could have received a massive haul. A young, high-potential center who is already a top-six performer certainly drives a high price.
As mentioned, though, the Ducks wanted to keep McTavish in Anaheim. Considering their ambitions this year, that is the right move. They were able to find a way, and he will wear the sweater for the foreseeable future.
Mason McTavish Poised To Lead Anaheim In 2025-26
With the contract now done, McTavish can now put his focus on hockey. He will be a focal point of this team, as well. The 22-year-old projects to enter the season as Anaheim’s second-line center.
Who skates along McTavish remains to be seen. The Ducks have no shortage of options to choose from. Veterans Chris Kreider and Alex Killorn could flank him. Youngster Cutter Gauthier is also a candidate to consider.
However, McTavish will be expected to be a primary offensive contributor this year. He has his contract, and he will have quality players to play with. Now, the Ducks will want to see him have the sort of breakout campaign they envisioned when they drafted him.