Can Mason McTavish Be the Solution for Canadiens’ Center Line?

The Montreal Canadiens are on the lookout for an upgrade at the second-line center position, and the opportunity to acquire Mason McTavish could be a game-changer. Last season, Oliver Kapanen filled that role by default but ultimately struggled to manage the demands of the NHL schedule. His playoff performance fell short, leading to Jake Evans taking over the position. While Evans is known for his impressive work ethic, he lacks the finishing touch needed to thrive alongside a playmaker like Ivan Demidov.

Last offseason brought speculation around McTavish’s future with the Anaheim Ducks as contract negotiations unfolded. General Manager Pat Verbeek ultimately signed the talented center to a six-year deal with a $7 million cap hit, but the season proved challenging for McTavish. He played 75 games, recording just 41 points, a decline from the 52 he tallied in 76 games the previous year. His plus-minus rating also dipped significantly, falling to minus-15 after finishing the prior season at even.

Currently, McTavish finds himself on the Ducks’ third line, as Leo Carlsson and Mikael Granlund have taken over the top two center spots. With Ryan Poehling poised to return to the lineup, McTavish’s ice time could further diminish. Additionally, he centers the second power-play unit and missed two of the Ducks’ 12 playoff games this season, raising questions about his role moving forward.

The decision now lies with Verbeek: will he hold onto the young center and allow him a chance to rebound next season, or consider moving him? If a trade were to occur, it would likely come at a steep price. Despite his current position on the third line, McTavish’s offensive upside and skills make him an attractive prospect. At just 23 years old, he aligns well with the Canadiens’ core, and his cap hit is lower than that of key players like Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield.

In his 304 career games, McTavish has accumulated 181 points, averaging 0.6 points per game. His faceoff success rate stands at 48.6%, and as a left-shot, he fits the Canadiens’ needs perfectly. Acquiring McTavish could provide the ideal complement to Demidov’s skill set, enhancing the Canadiens’ center line. However, Verbeek might be reluctant to part with a player he signed to a favorable contract.

To initiate trade discussions, the Canadiens would likely need to present an enticing package. This could include a prospect like Michael Hage or Alexander Zharovsky, along with a couple of draft picks and possibly a roster player. Losing McTavish would create a significant gap in the Ducks’ lineup, making a trade complex.

McTavish represents a stable option for the Canadiens, unlike other recent acquisitions like Kirby Dach or Alex Newhook, who may remain on the wing. His long-term contract adds to his value, and he possesses the hockey IQ that head coach Martin St-Louis appreciates. At 6-foot-1 and 219 pounds, McTavish also brings physicality to the ice, having recorded 95 hits last season, demonstrating his continuous improvement.

While the prospect of McTavish joining the Canadiens offers exciting potential for their center line, the question remains: will the cost be too high for Kent Hughes to consider?

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.