Something is brewing out west, and Montreal Canadiens fans are paying close attention. The latest whispers from Anaheim have set the hockey world abuzz, hinting at a dramatic twist in the ongoing Mason McTavish saga—one that could send shockwaves all the way to Quebec. At just 22 years old, this rising star and former third overall pick is making headlines for reasons that go far beyond his on-ice talent.

Negotiations between McTavish and the Ducks have hit an unexpected snag, and the tension is mounting with each passing day. Rumors of a potential training camp boycott and a possible rift with management have thrown his future into question, leaving fans and insiders scrambling for answers. Could this be the moment Kent Hughes and the Canadiens have been waiting for—a rare opportunity to land a game-changing center who fits perfectly into Montreal’s long-term vision?

But as the stakes grow higher, so do the risks. Salary cap concerns, trade demands, and the ever-present pressure to build a contender all hang in the balance. Is this a golden opportunity, or a dangerous gamble? The full story behind Mason McTavish’s uncertain future—and what it could mean for the Canadiens—is more surprising than anyone expected. Read on to uncover the details.

Photo of Anaheim Ducks star Mason McTavish (left) Canadiens Logo (right)

Photo credit: NHL

The saga surrounding Mason McTavish is taking a turn that could very well rekindle hope among Montreal Canadiens fans.

At 22 years old, this promising center, drafted 3rd overall in 2021, is threatening to boycott training camp if no contract agreement is reached by then.

Negotiations have been stalling for months: McTavish is aiming for a bridge deal, while the Ducks are pushing for a long-term contract of 7 years at $7 or $8 million per season.

According to Elliotte Friedman, on his 32 Thoughts podcast, he highlighted that Ducks GM Pat Verbeek wants McTavish to “earn” his big salary before granting it.

Reports coming out of Anaheim suggest that McTavish is not finding this amusing at all, and his relationship with Ducks management could be deteriorating.

“Mason McTavish’s presence for the Anaheim Ducks’ first game of the season could be in jeopardy.”

– TVA Sports

Could the Mason McTavish saga benefit Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens?

For Habs fans, this obviously looks like a potential bargain. Kent Hughes has been monitoring the situation closely since the summer, seeing McTavish as the ideal No. 2 center to stabilize the second line behind Nick Suzuki.

Let’s not forget McTavish was once again linked to the Canadiens earlier this week.

With 22 goals and 52 points in 2024-2025 and a gritty style made possible by his 6-foot-2, 220-pound frame, McTavish has a profile tailor-made for Montreal-and Kent Hughes has the assets to pique Pat Verbeek’s interest.

Still, caution is needed: the Canadiens’ salary cap is already nearing its limits. Ivan Demidov, Lane Hutson, and Zachary Bolduc will soon demand substantial raises.

Speaking of Bolduc, let’s not kid ourselves: Pat Verbeek and the Ducks could very well demand him in a trade for McTavish, along with a young player like David Reinbacher.

Hughes, who has demonstrated responsible management on many occasions, must be careful.

But hey, fans can keep dreaming as long as young McTavish remains unsigned.