As the 2025 NHL offseason enters its quietest stretch, trade rumors surrounding Anaheim Ducks center Mason McTavish continue to stir. Despite the lull in league activity, McTavish’s name remains a hot topic, especially as interest from multiple teams persists.
An NHL executive recently stated that while the Ducks are increasingly inclined to retain McTavish, teams are still “circling,” trying to determine if he might become available. Among the suitors reportedly keeping tabs are the Montreal Canadiens, Carolina Hurricanes, and notably, the Detroit Red Wings.
Yzerman-Verbeek History Fuels Detroit’s Pursuit of McTavish Amid Rising Trade Buzz
Detroit’s consistent interest in McTavish is particularly noteworthy due to the deep ties between Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman and Ducks GM Pat Verbeek. The two played together in Detroit and later worked closely within the Red Wings and Tampa Bay Lightning organizations.
Their longstanding professional relationship has sparked speculation that a deal between them could be more likely, given mutual trust and shared vision. Yzerman, known for bold roster moves, reportedly sees McTavish as a player who could reshape Detroit’s center depth significantly.
Mason McTavish (NHL)McTavish, the third overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft, just completed his entry-level contract and is now a restricted free agent. The 22-year-old power forward has drawn significant attention due to his size, skill, and upside.
As one of the most discussed trade assets this offseason, he was widely expected to receive at least one offer sheet. However, despite the chatter, none materialized likely because Anaheim holds ample cap space ($20.5 million) and would be in a strong position to match any offer, deterring potential aggressors.
NHL Offer Sheet Hesitance Reflects Internal Politics, Etiquette, and Steep Trade Demands
The reluctance of teams to submit an offer sheet likely reflects deeper dynamics within NHL front offices. An unnamed agent pointed out the fear among GMs of having their offer matched, which could embarrass the team and upset owners.
The so-called “Old Boys’ network” in the NHL also plays a role, where unspoken etiquette often discourages aggressive moves like offer sheets. The lack of recent examples supports this theory, leaving trades as the more likely path for acquiring players like McTavish.
Despite trade interest, Ducks GM Verbeek remains focused on signing McTavish rather than moving him. According to sources involved in discussions, the asking price is steep: a right-shot, top four defenseman with top-pairing potential. For the Red Wings, that would likely mean parting with Axel Sandin-Pellikka one of their top young defense prospects.
Given that Detroit is unlikely to move cornerstone Moritz Seider, any serious trade talk would likely center around Sandin-Pellikka, who recently debuted with the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins. As it stands, McTavish appears more likely to stay put unless a team makes a compelling, franchise-altering offer.
