Anaheim Ducks Offseason Rumors: McTavish Trade Talks Heat Up

The 2026 Stanley Cup has been awarded to the Carolina Hurricanes, signaling the official start of the NHL offseason. With the 2026 NHL Entry Draft just a week away, the Ducks find themselves at a pivotal moment as qualifying offers for restricted free agents loom and unrestricted free agency approaches.

As the offseason unfolds, the buzz around the Ducks is palpable, particularly regarding forward Mason McTavish. After a successful season, the Ducks are one of the most intriguing teams in the league, and speculation about potential roster changes is rampant.

McTavish, who recently signed a six-year contract with a $7 million average annual value, has become a focal point in trade discussions. Despite his talent, he served as a healthy scratch in two of the Ducks’ twelve playoff games, raising eyebrows and sparking interest from other teams. Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Citizen has linked McTavish to his hometown Ottawa Senators, noting that he is among a select group of forwards the Senators are considering.

According to Garrioch, a league executive believes McTavish would be a great fit for Ottawa, which only adds to the growing speculation. ESPN’s Kevin Weekes also chimed in, stating on Twitter that McTavish is garnering attention from multiple clubs for his skill and upside, emphasizing that a quality trade would be necessary if a deal were to materialize.

Adding to the intrigue, Darren Dreger from TSN suggested that it’s only a matter of time before McTavish is moved. During an appearance on the “Starr and McKenna” radio show, he noted the significant chatter surrounding the young forward. The Ducks are facing a critical offseason, and McTavish’s future is a key storyline.

In addition to McTavish, the Ducks’ defensive depth chart is in a precarious position. All three of their veteran defensemen—Jacob Trouba, John Carlson, and Radko Gudas—are set to become unrestricted free agents if they don’t sign extensions before July 1. Carlson has already indicated he will not return and plans to test the market, as reported by The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun.

“John Carlson is headed to market,” LeBrun stated, explaining that discussions about an extension have not led to a resolution. Meanwhile, Trouba, who has found success playing alongside Jackson LaCombe, may also be headed for free agency, according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman.

Gudas, the Ducks’ captain, is another player drawing interest. Kevin Weekes revealed that if Gudas does not re-sign, teams such as the Florida Panthers and Toronto Maple Leafs could be potential landing spots for him, citing his physical style and playoff experience.

In a notable development, Dreger mentioned on the “Starr and McKenna” show that discussions had occurred regarding a potential trade involving McTavish, Robert Thomas, and Colton Parayko between the Ducks and the St. Louis Blues. Although the deal did not materialize, it highlights the ongoing negotiations and the high stakes for the Ducks as they navigate their offseason strategy.

As the NHL Buyout Window opens, the Ducks may need to explore their options carefully, making this a critical juncture for the franchise.

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