Here’s the takeaway you need to know right now: Mason McTavish, one of the Anaheim Ducks’ most promising young forwards, is reportedly unhappy with his role, and the situation could be escalating towards a summer trade. This isn’t just fan speculation; top NHL insiders are sounding the alarm. Elliotte Friedman has openly stated he’d be “shocked” if McTavish signs a big-money, long-term extension this summer, while David Pagnotta has directly linked the frustration to a potentially diminishing role on the team.
Why the sudden discontent from a 22-year-old who just posted 22 goals and 53 points? It’s a classic case of a talent logjam and a player wanting the opportunity to prove his worth. The Ducks’ signing of veteran Mikael Granlund and the anticipated arrival of top prospect Roger McQueen create a crowded future down the middle. For McTavish, who saw just over 17 minutes of ice time per game last season, the writing on the wall suggests he might not get the top-six center role he craves. This uncertainty has put rival GMs on high alert.
Which Teams Are Lurking for the Talented Center?
When a player of McTavish’s caliber and age becomes available, teams listen. According to rumors, three teams in particular are keeping a close eye on the situation. The Buffalo Sabres, desperate to end their playoff drought, could see McTavish as a significant upgrade to solidify their top-six forward group. In Montreal, the Habs are still searching for that elusive second-line center, and McTavish fits the timeline and playing style perfectly, though their asset pool is thinning. Then you have the Calgary Flames, a team in transition. With veterans like Nazem Kadri aging, injecting a young, high-potential center like McTavish into their core would be a savvy move for the future.
My Take: Why Trading McTavish Would Be a Grave Error for the Ducks
From where I’m sitting, the Anaheim Ducks are playing with fire. It would be a colossal misstep to move on from a 22-year-old power forward who has already proven he can be a 20-goal, 50-point player without premium ice time. The focus shouldn’t be on which draft picks they can get for him, but on how to carve out a meaningful top-six role to keep him.
You don’t let foundational pieces like this walk out the door as you’re trying to exit a rebuild. Giving up on McTavish before he even enters his prime could be a decision that haunts the Ducks franchise for years to come. This is a critical moment for the front office; they need to commit to their young star, not show him the door.
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The post Cracks in the Foundation: Top Insider Reveals Mason McTavish’s Frustration in Anaheim appeared first on NHL Trade Rumors.
