In the world of NHL trade rumors, surprises are always lurking just around the corner—but every so often, a proposal emerges that truly leaves fans and insiders scratching their heads.

That’s exactly what’s happening right now in Montreal, where a new trade idea involving beloved winger Josh Anderson is generating an unexpected storm of debate.

The source? Caleb Kerney, a respected journalist with a history at The Hockey News and Dobber Prospects, whose latest suggestion has sent shockwaves through hockey circles and sparked countless conversations online.

Kerney’s proposal isn’t just another name-swapping rumor. It involves two teams with very different needs, a potential star center on the rise, and a package that many believe is far from balanced.

As speculation swirls about the future of Kirby Dach and the Canadiens’ plans for the upcoming season, this trade scenario has fans questioning not only the value of their favorite players but also the logic behind such a bold move.

What exactly is being offered, and why is this deal stirring up so much controversy? The details—and the reactions—are more surprising than you might expect.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

A rather surprising trade proposal has just surfaced involving fan-favourite Josh Anderson, coming from journalist Caleb Kerney.

Believe it or not, Kerney is a former contributor to The Hockey News and Dobber Prospects, so he’s fairly well-known-but I’m having a hard time understanding his proposal.

It’s reportedly to potentially replace Kirby Dach, who, according to multiple sources, is not expected to be fully ready to start the season as he continues to recover from knee surgery.

Kerney suggests a trade between the Montreal Canadiens and the Anaheim Ducks, to bring Mason McTavish to town.

So far, so good-and I love the idea!

Trade proposal between the Montreal Canadiens and Anaheim Ducks involving Josh Anderson and Mason McTavish

However, take a look at his offer:

TO MONTREAL:

Mason McTavish

TO ANAHEIM:

Mike Matheson and Josh Anderson

I like Matheson and I like Anderson, but I don’t see how the Ducks could accept an offer like that.

In my book, McTavish’s value is much higher than that!

Unless Kerney knows something I don’t, I can’t understand how Ducks GM Pat Verbeek would even consider this deal.

Mason McTavish, 22 years old, is a complete center at 6-foot-2 and 220 pounds. He was the 3rd overall pick by the Anaheim Ducks in 2021 (first round).

He’s recorded 140 points in 229 career NHL games, including 60 goals, and had 52 points in 76 games during the 2024-2025 season-while playing on the third line and getting limited power-play time.

McTavish truly has the potential to become a star NHL center.