As the Montreal Canadiens gear up for their highly anticipated training camp, the hockey world is buzzing with rumors and speculation about the team’s next big move.

With management on the hunt for a crucial second-line center, one name has suddenly taken center stage—Mason McTavish of the Anaheim Ducks. But just as fans begin to dream of McTavish donning the iconic Canadiens jersey, a surprising new obstacle threatens to derail those hopes.

Behind the scenes, General Manager Kent Hughes and his team have been working tirelessly to strengthen the roster, exploring high-profile trades and considering every possible option.

While previous targets have slipped away, McTavish has emerged as a realistic and exciting possibility. Yet, as negotiations heat up, the race for his signature is becoming increasingly competitive, with several rival teams entering the fray and driving up the stakes.

What is the unexpected challenge facing the Canadiens in their pursuit of McTavish? Why has the price to acquire him suddenly skyrocketed, and which teams are determined to outbid Montreal?

With the season fast approaching and the pressure mounting, the answers to these questions could reshape the team’s future. Dive deeper into the intrigue and discover what’s really happening behind the scenes.

Anaheim Ducks' Mason McTAvish (left) Canadiens GM Kent Hughes (right)

Photo credit: All Habs

The Montreal Canadiens will begin their training camp next month, and Mason McTavish appears to be the team’s next target.

But now a new obstacle has emerged in the pursuit of the forward.

Since the end of last season, Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton have been actively looking for a second-line center.
Management had tried to add Jordan Kyrou to the team’s roster, but that trade doesn’t seem likely to materialize.

Several names have come up in recent days, but one that seems realistic is forward Mason McTavish.

He still hasn’t signed with the Ducks, and the team already has multiple players who can play center.

Kent Hughes therefore has an excellent opportunity to get his hands on McTavish, but the situation could be more complicated for one specific reason.

Several teams are in the race for Mason McTavish

In recent days, we’ve learned that several teams – including the Detroit Red Wings – are expected to aggressively pursue the young center.

“While Anaheim is still trying to sign Mason McTavish, Jimmy Murphy hears that Detroit, Montreal, and Carolina are teams to watch for a potential McTavish trade.”
– NHL Trade Alert

So the Canadiens are facing a lot of competition in the McTavish sweepstakes, which could complicate things for Kent Hughes.

It’s clear that the price to acquire him could increase for Montreal.

Finally, with the season approaching, we should see new developments in the coming days, and the situation could be resolved quickly.