There’s a fresh wave of excitement building in Montreal, and it’s not just the usual summer speculation.

As the NHL rumor mill spins faster, whispers from inside league circles are hinting at a potential move that could reshape the Canadiens’ future—and possibly send shockwaves through the entire hockey world.

While some names have surfaced before, this time the buzz surrounds a player whose impact could be transformative, not only for the Habs’ lineup but for the development of their brightest young prospects.

Behind the scenes, trusted insiders have started to reveal intriguing details about Montreal’s front office strategy, with General Manager Kent Hughes reportedly keeping a close watch on a developing situation that has multiple teams on high alert.

The stakes are high, and the competition is fierce, as three franchises are now being mentioned as serious contenders in what could become one of the summer’s most talked-about sweepstakes.

What exactly is unfolding behind closed doors? Why are fans and analysts suddenly so invested in this particular pursuit? And how might a single acquisition completely alter the Canadiens’ trajectory for years to come?

The full story is more surprising—and potentially thrilling—than anyone could have predicted. Read on to discover the latest twist in this high-stakes saga.

Anaheim Ducks center Mason McTavish (23) plays the puck against Montreal Canadiens right wing Josh Anderson (17) during the first period at Bell Centre.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

The excellent journalist James Murphy has just reported an interesting development regarding forward Mason McTavish and the Montreal Canadiens.

We suspected it, but he has just officially confirmed that Kent Hughes is interested in this case.

In fact, there are reportedly three teams more seriously involved in this matter.

James Murphy: Re Mason McTavish: The Red Wings “are one team showing serious interest”; with the Canadiens and Hurricanes also “keeping tabs” on him

So be aware that Kent Hughes is keeping an eye on this file, which is great news and very exciting.

Things could start moving again soon.

If the Ducks do end up trading their excellent young center, it will likely come down to the Detroit Red Wings, the Montreal Canadiens, and the Carolina Hurricanes.

Three teams officially named in the Mason McTavish sweepstakes

I’m very happy to see the Montreal Canadiens’ name on this list.

Mason McTavish, age 22, is a well-rounded center standing 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 220 pounds. He was the 3rd overall pick by the Anaheim Ducks in 2021 (first round).

He has recorded 140 points in 229 career NHL games, including 60 goals, and he posted 52 points in 76 games during the 2024-2025 season – playing on the third line and with little power-play time.

He would be absolutely ideal as a second-line center for the Montreal Canadiens.

That would give Michael Hage all the time he needs to develop, and could even allow Hage to start his NHL career on the wing, which could really ease his transition to the pros (as opposed to placing him directly as the second-line center).

It may seem far off, but a certain Sebastian Aho also started his NHL career as a winger.