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Canadiens Exploring Bold Move to Bolster Roster

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Levine | Last updated Aug 4, 2025 4:26 PM ET

As the Anaheim Ducks continue to navigate the offseason, the restricted free agency of young center Mason McTavish has been a main talking point. McTavish and the Ducks haven't been able to come to terms on a new deal, with Anaheim holding firm in discussions.

This has led to all sorts of trade speculation around the former third overall draft pick, with the Ducks gauging the trade market for a potential deal. While it remains to be seen if the team will trade McTavish, there are multiple teams preparing offers in case he is made more available.

One team that could be an option to go after McTavish is the Montreal Canadiens. According to NHL insider Anthony Di Marco, Montreal is a team that could be keeping close eyes on the status of McTavish.

Anthony Di Marco: "The Canadiens are a club that I’d reckon would be keeping close tabs on McTavish’s availability" - Daily Faceoff (8/1)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) August 3, 2025

With the Ducks unsure of what to do with McTavish, trading him to a team like the Canadiens could make a lot of sense. Not only would they be sending him out of the Western Conference, but Montreal could have the draft assets for Anaheim to consider a deal.

The Ducks want to compete for the postseason this year, and they can't be held back by the development of key players. Last season, McTavish posted 22 goals and 30 assists for the Ducks.

Anaheim has wanted to see more growth from McTavish, and he hasn't fully rounded into form. While the center is still growing, Anaheim doesn't have time to be patient with him any longer.

Talks with McTavish remain very fluid, but it does seem like a trade could be coming down the line. But where Anaheim will send the young center could be one of the bigger stories down the stretch of the NHL offseason.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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