McTavish Trade Speculation Persists Despite Ducks Needs

Mason McTavish posted 41 points in 2025-26 after his 52-point career high the prior season and two healthy scratches in the playoffs.

McTavish Contract and Production Dip

Mason McTavish signed a six-year contract with a $7 million average annual value last September. His output fell from 22 goals and 30 assists in 2024-25 to 17 goals and 24 assists this season. The 23-year-old center missed training camp and preseason due to contract negotiations the previous summer. Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic reported that some teams view a trade as a potential reset for McTavish. The Ducks face upcoming raises for Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier that will tighten their cap space.

Ducks management kept McTavish on the roster despite the dip and the two late-season healthy scratches. LeBrun stated the club will not move him without a major offer from another team. This stance contrasts with the speculation that a change of scenery could restore his production levels seen in 2024-25.

The drop from 52 points to 41 points occurred while McTavish shifted down the depth chart. Two playoff healthy scratches added to questions about his role. Anaheim’s decision to retain him reflects the difficulty of replacing a young center with term at that cap hit.

Beniers as Potential Kraken Asset

Matty Beniers remains under contract with the Seattle Kraken as their top-line center. William James of Philly Hockey Now noted pre-deadline rumors that Seattle would move Shane Wright for a top-six winger. James suggested the Kraken might instead explore moving Beniers to acquire an elite scorer. A package including a winger, first-round pick and prospect could interest Seattle.

Such a deal would address one scoring need but leave Seattle without a first-line center in a thin summer market. The Kraken reached the playoffs only once since their 2021-22 debut. Beniers’ departure would compound the challenge of finding comparable center talent via free agency or trade.

Tkachuk Rumors Denied in Ottawa

Brady Tkachuk denied recent rumors that he sought a trade from the Ottawa Senators. Senators GM Steve Staios confirmed no such discussions occurred. Allan Greenberg of Florida Hockey Now reported ongoing speculation that Panthers GM Bill Zito could pursue Tkachuk to pair him with brother Matthew. The Panthers face their own offseason tasks including goalie decisions and potential draft maneuvering.

Tkachuk’s denial and Staios’ statement close the immediate window for any Florida deal. The brothers remain separated for at least the 2026-27 season. Ottawa enters the draft period with its core intact.