It is no secret that the Montreal Canadiens would love an opportunity to upgrade their second-line centre position. There might not be a better opportunity than right now to do so.
The 2025 centre free agency class was one of the weaker ones in recent memory, especially considering players like John Tavares and Sam Bennett re-signed with their teams right before free agency opened.
One of the more notable centres available on the open market, Mikael Granlund, signed with the Anaheim Ducks on a three-year, seven-million-dollar per season contract. The acquisition of Granlund raises some questions about what the Ducks are going to do with restricted free agent centre Mason McTavish.
The Ducks now boast a deep group of centers, and while they have the cap space to re-sign McTavish, the bigger question is whether there is still room in their lineup to play him at his natural position. He may be more valuable to them right now as a trade piece, and considering he is eligible for offer sheets right now, it may be beneficial for the Canadiens to jump at the chance to grab a player who could slot right in the middle of their second line.
The Anaheim Center Ducks.
— Habs Chronicle (@HabsChronicle) July 1, 2025
Ryan Strome
Leo Carlsson
Mason McTavish
Cutter Gauthier
Ryan Poehling
Mikael Granlund
In the pipe: Roger McQueen
Offer sheet McTavish. https://t.co/bjg4RzPg8y
If the Canadiens could get their hands on McTavish, he would create a great one-two punch with Nick Suzuki. At just 22 years old, McTavish fits perfectly with the Canadiens' core, as they already have one of the youngest rosters in the NHL. McTavish's game is built on instincts and hockey IQ, which is exactly the type of player the Canadiens are looking for.
In four seasons with the Ducks, the 6'1", 220-pound centreman's points per game totals have increased in every season, on a team that has consistently been near the bottom of the NHL standings since he has been there. In 229 games with the Ducks, McTavish has 60 goals and 140 points. McTavish may benefit from having a fresh start on a team that is looking to compete from next season onwards.
The Canadiens could attempt to pry McTavish away from the Ducks with an offer sheet, but the last time they went that route, it did not go as planned. The most sensible way would be to try to acquire McTavish through a package, whether it be Dach and prospects or picks.
It will not be easy to acquire the former 2021 3rd overall pick, but if the Canadiens could acquire McTavish, it would significantly strengthen their lineup and make them serious contenders.