McTavish trade rumors point to cap relief for Anaheim

Mason McTavish, the 23-year-old center taken third overall in 2021, enters the 2026 offseason with his name prominently featured in trade discussions after a disappointing season.

Anaheim’s cap squeeze takes center stage

The Ducks signed McTavish to an extension before the 2025-26 campaign, yet his production fell and his ice time dropped while he was a healthy scratch twice in the playoffs. Anaheim must now sign Leo Carlsson and prepare for rising costs tied to Cutter Gauthier, forcing management to weigh asset sales for cap flexibility.

Teams around the league noted McTavish’s skating and on-ice awareness as areas of concern, factors that contributed to his reduced role despite his youth. The club listened on the 23-year-old at the 2026 trade deadline, though no deal materialized.

McTavish remains under contract for several seasons, giving any acquiring team cost certainty through his age-27 year. This structure mirrors the appeal of other young, signed forwards available only via trade this summer.

Ottawa emerges as a logical destination

Ottawa has shown interest in the local product dating back to last offseason, when McTavish returned home to skate during contract negotiations. A return to his hometown could supply the Senators with a middle-six center already on a long-term deal.

Other clubs view McTavish as one of the few impactful centers obtainable without entering unrestricted free agency. The limited supply of such players has driven asking prices higher across the board.

A successful trade would allow Anaheim to retain its other young core members while McTavish receives a fresh start and increased opportunity elsewhere. Both sides stand to benefit from the reset.

Long-term value outweighs recent dip

McTavish posted lower offensive totals and fewer minutes after his extension, yet he remains only three years removed from his draft year. Scouts project improvement by ages 24 and 25 regardless of location.

The Ducks’ decision to explore options reflects a broader strategy of managing payroll as their prospects reach prime earning years. McTavish’s availability creates a rare bidding opportunity in a market short on centers.

Should no deal occur, Anaheim will likely rely on McTavish for a rebound season to help stabilize the middle of the lineup. Either outcome hinges on the price other teams are willing to pay this summer.