It’s time for another edition of NHL Rumours. While the off-season rolls on, several high-profile restricted free agents remain unsigned. One of the most notable names still on the board is Anaheim Ducks centre Mason McTavish. The 22-year-old is coming off his entry-level deal, and negotiations with general manager Pat Verbeek have yet to produce a new contract. The Ducks have cap flexibility, but their patient GM is known for taking his time to secure the right deal.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours: Mason McTavish Contract Talks with Anaheim Ducks
Rumour: Anthony Di Marco of Daily Faceoff reports it is “hard to see a world” where Verbeek trades McTavish, describing him as a long-term core piece. Verbeek’s negotiating style—honed under Steve Yzerman—often involves playing out situations where he holds leverage. Meanwhile, Sportsnet notes the Ducks have yet to exchange contract numbers as of mid-June, though comparables like JJ Peterka, Matthew Knies, and Quinton Byfield’s $6.25m AAV extension could frame the talks.
Analysis: Mason McTavish posted 24 goals and 32 assists for 56 points last season, ranking in the 70th percentile for scoring among forwards. The Athletic’s model pegs his market value around $5 million, so a $6-7m AAV would not be an overpay, especially considering the rising salary cap. His +7 offensive rating highlights his role as an elite play driver, while his defensive metrics remain an area for improvement. With Trevor Zegras traded in part to solidify McTavish’s spot as the club’s second centre, Anaheim’s internal plan clearly revolves around keeping him. Fans should expect a Mason McTavish contract before the season begins in October.
Why Things Could Go Wrong
Rumour: Both Daily Faceoff and Sportsnet point to the risk of strained relations if negotiations drag on.
Analysis: While Anaheim holds the upper hand—McTavish lacks arbitration rights and is offer-sheet eligible but easily matchable—the danger lies in pushing too hard. A prolonged negotiation standoff, a situation Verbeek regularly finds himself in, could damage trust, especially for a young player already entrenched in the leadership group and as a core piece.
Why McTavish Will Stay
Rumour: Management views McTavish as a “very important” player to the organization.
Analysis: Anaheim has over $30 million in cap space, a proven willingness to spend on core talent, and no intention of trading their franchise centre. Whether it’s a bridge deal or mid-term contract, the Ducks can match any outside offer, making his departure highly improbable. This is something we broke down even further in a recent article.
What a New Mason McTavish Contract Means to the Ducks
Signing McTavish would lock in a high-end centre for the foreseeable future, ensuring the Ducks’ rebuild stays centred around him, Leo Carlsson, and Cutter Gauthier. It would also set a financial benchmark for future deals with other young stars. In the immediate term, it stabilizes the lineup and gives Anaheim another offensive focal point that they need heading into 2025–26.
Main Photo by: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images
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