Canadiens Circle Back to Trade For Ducks’ $42M Center

According to reporter James Murphy, the Montreal Canadiens have circled back on trade talks to try to acquire Mason McTavish. Having kicked tires on his availability at the NHL Trade Deadline, the Canadiens continue to look for a potential second-line center and McTavish is the kind of young, high-ceiling option GM Kent Hughes has gambled on in the past.

Two NHL sources confirmed to Murphy’s Hockey Law that, “They circled back and called on him. I don’t think it’s at the point of serious discussions or exchanging trade scenarios but the Habs let it be known they’re still interested.”

A second source confirmed the renewed interest and, while noting that a trade return hadn’t been formally discussed, believes the Ducks’ starting point would be the Canadiens top prospect and University of Michigan center Michael Hage. The Canadiens have been hesitant to move Hage, and reports are that most trade discussions involving him have been a non-starter.

Why McTavish Might Be Available

McTavish didn’t exactly struggle this past season, but his numbers following a big contract extension weren’t what the Ducks had hoped for. He posted 17 goals and 24 assists in 75 games — 11 points fewer than the previous year. To make matters more complicated, he was a healthy scratch at times down the stretch and into the playoffs. It created a situation where questions about his future in Anaheim started to surface.

Other reporters like The Athletic’s Chris Johnston have also hinted that Anaheim might explore moving him given the money they’ll need to spend on other players like Leo Carlsson.

Montreal Has Been Interested in McTavish For Some Time

The Canadiens are seen as needing a legitimate second-line center, someone to play behind Nick Suzuki. “I was told that when Mason McTavish was going through that contract battle and sat out part of camp before signing last September, the Canadiens made it clear they were willing dance partners if Verbeek wanted to trade him,” Murphy reported at the end of May.

The Canadiens aren’t alone in their interest. Ottawa Senators insider Bruce Garrioch reports that Ottawa could also check in on McTavish, though the Senators have also been linked to names like Jake DeBrusk.

It will be intriguing to see how things unfold. Kent Hughes is aggressive and is working the market trying to find the right fit. The ask and return is a big part of how interested he’ll remain in McTavish, assuming the Ducks are looking to trade him.

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