Jason Parkhurst-Imagn Images

Ducks Reportedly Take Firm Stance on Mason McTavish Rumors

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Levine | Last updated Jul 19, 2025 4:32 PM ET

As the Anaheim Ducks get ready for the upcoming season, the front office has been busy upgrading the roster. While the offseason hasn't been as successful as some may have hoped for, the team has added some talent to the team.

The Ducks also hired former Chicago Blackhawks head coach Joel Quenneville, giving them a veteran leader behind the bench. With Quenneville, the Ducks are now looking to be more of a serious contender for the postseason.

But Anaheim has been dealing with contract negotiations with young center Mason McTavish. This has led some opposing teams to believe that the Ducks could move McTavish in a trade.

However, NHL insider Chris Johnsonton has pushed back on that idea. Johnston has reported that Anaheim is planning to match any offer that comes into the restricted free agent.

Chris Johnston: Re Mason McTavish: Teams thought, can we get him through offer sheet?; Anaheim is going to match that offer; he's someone for sure other teams have identified as a player they'd love to get their hands on - Steve Dangle Podcast (Jul 15)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) July 18, 2025

It seems that McTavish will remain a part of the Ducks for the future. Anaheim had high hopes about McTavish when they drafted him a few years ago, and he has shown flashes of greatness.

Last season, McTavish scored 22 goals and 30 assists for the Ducks. The former third overall pick increased his production and will be looking to do more of the same this year.

But the Ducks also need him to perform at a higher level if he is going to stick around long-term. The Ducks are now looking to make a jump in terms of contention, and they can't afford to mess around with development players.

With Quenneville now in the mix, Anaheim has its sights set on competing for Stanley Cup titles. While it may take a little more time for the Ducks to become true Stanley Cup contenders, the team is looking to add more talent to the roster.

McTavish is a highly valued player but if the front office believes that he has hit his ceiling, they could move on. This upcoming season will be massive for the young center and it could tell us a lot about the plans of Anaheim heading into next offseason.

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

More must-reads: