The Anaheim Ducks haven’t tasted playoff hockey since 2018, but this season feels different. With Stanley Cup-winning coach Joel Quenneville behind the bench, key additions like Chris Kreider and Mikael Granlund, and Lukas Dostal taking over in net after John Gibson’s trade to Detroit, the pieces seem aligned for a breakthrough.
Yet one crucial puzzle piece remains unsolved: Mason McTavish’s contract situation threatens to complicate what should be the organization’s most promising campaign in years.
Will Mason McTavish and the Ducks Reach a Breaking Point?
According to a newly released report from an unnamed NHL executive, general manager Pat Verbeek hasn’t “put out the bat signal” about a potential trade of McTavish and could be willing to see which side ultimately blinks first in the negotiation process. This high-stakes game of chicken between the restricted free agent and his organization could determine whether the Ducks move forward with or without one of their most promising young forwards.
“He hasn’t sent the bat signal out yet that it’s time to talk trade and take the best offer,” this executive said of Verbeek. “The pressure point of camp is coming, but right now they’re not there yet, and I’m not sure they ever get there.”
The stalemate reflects a broader market reality that’s working in Anaheim’s favor. Another executive pointed out the limited availability of quality centers, explaining the Ducks’ current leverage.
“You keep telling me this team and that team are looking for a 2C, and like I keep asking you, tell me which ones are really available,” another executive said. “I agree there’s been teams looking, but up until this point, I’m not sure how many have really been selling or willing to listen. I think the [Marco] Rossi market wasn’t as big as some were reporting, and that’s why he signed.”
Could a Bridge Deal Solve Both Sides’ Concerns?
A bridge-style contract for McTavish remains a possibility, a solution that could benefit both parties. Such an agreement wouldn’t tie him to the organization for the long term while allowing him to continue developing his skills at the NHL level and helping the Ducks take their anticipated step forward in the standings.
For McTavish, getting a deal done sooner rather than later makes the most sense. The 22-year-old is coming off a career-high season with 22 goals and 30 assists for Anaheim, building momentum he’d want to carry into the 2025-26 campaign. His most recent salary cap hit was $894,167, which he hopes to see significantly rise in his next contract.
The third overall pick from the 2021 NHL Draft has already established himself as a key contributor. He has appeared in 229 career NHL games and collected 60 goals, 80 assists, and 170 penalty minutes. Those numbers represent steady growth and suggest he’s ready for a larger role in the Ducks’ projected resurgence.
With training camp approaching, both sides understand the stakes. McTavish wants financial security and the chance to build on his breakout season, while Verbeek needs his young center locked up to maximize the team’s championship window under Quenneville’s leadership.
