Montreal Canadiens get:
F Mason McTavish
Anaheim Ducks get:
D David Reinbacher, 2026 second-round pick, 2026 fourth-round pick
Why it works: Montreal's need for a second-line center behind Nick Suzuki became glaringly obvious as the Canadiens stumbled offensively through the Eastern Conference finals against the Canes. Their inability to generate shots -- not to mention goals -- stemmed from a lack of depth down the middle. There's a perfect opportunity to address that issue by bringing in McTavish.
Montreal has shown interest in McTavish before -- inquiring on his status last year when he was at an impasse with Anaheim on negotiating a new contract -- but the Ducks did eventually ink the 23-year-old to a six-year, $42 million deal. But then nothing about the first season of that pact went to plan. McTavish failed to thrive under coach Joel Quenneville, and was a healthy scratch at times while producing 17 goals and 41 points in 75 games. A change of scenery seems like the best course for all involved -- and the Canadiens should be first in line. He has the talent to succeed as part of a young squad that's on a serious upswing.
The Canadiens also have to be mindful of their future. Phillip Danault has only one year left on his deal, and if McTavish were to join now, he could take lessons from Danault (particularly on the defensive end) and provide Montreal with insurance in case the veteran moves on next summer.
To a similar degree that the Canadiens require center depth, the Ducks could use an NHL-ready player on the back end. All three of Anaheim's top defensive veterans -- Gudas, Trouba and Carlson -- are unrestricted free agents. The Ducks could retain one or two, but adding Reinbacher -- the No. 5 pick in 2023 and only 21 years old -- would give Anaheim another potential cornerstone on its blue line. And in a draft as deep as the one coming, collecting picks is also going to benefit the Ducks' long-term goals of transitioning into a perennial playoff contender.
It's possible Anaheim will want a little more of a sweetener for McTavish, so another seventh-round pick being tossed into the mix wouldn't hurt. But it's pretty clear McTavish's time in Anaheim is probably coming to a close, and Montreal is in a good position to give the Ducks a solid return. -- Shilton
