Patrik Laine and the Montreal Canadiens could reap massive benefits from acquiring Anaheim Ducks restricted free agent (RFA) Mason McTavish. However, the organization is reportedly wary of moving on from a talented prospect ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season.
The Ducks have no interest whatsoever in parting ways with the 22-year-old forward. Still, as long as the two sides fail to reach an agreement, Anaheim can’t help but listen to the buzz around the NHL. Several franchises are lining up, clustering together, waiting to pounce on any chance to sign McTavish.
Whether that door ever truly opens, remains to be seen. Reports indicate McTavish’s future is all but settled amid interest from many big markets in the NHL. Yet, the Canadiens won’t be giving up soon. Unless the trade return requires losing a crucial teammate of Laine and the rest of the Habs.
One piece too many
Drafted with fifth overall pick in 2023, David Reinbacher is set to blossom into the Canadiens’ lineup during the 2025-26 NHL campaign. Expectations are already set high for the Austrian wonderkid, although he has yet to make his league debut. As reports indicate, Montreal won’t give Reinbacher up for McTavish.
“David Reinbacher is a right shot top four defenseman with top pairing potential. Mason McTavish fits the bill as a second line center for the Habs, but trading away Reinbacher creates a hole on the blue line. Won’t work,” TSN’s Eric Macramalla said on his X account, formerly Twitter.
Back in full swing
Laine’s NHL career has been one marred by injuries more often than not. That misfortune was present in Montreal, as well. Prior to the start of the 2024-25 NHL season, the Finn sustained a knee sprain which caused him to miss the first stretch of the campaign. Moreover, Laine had spent the summer recovering from surgery after suffering a broken clavicle.
Now, the 27-year-old is hoping to turn back the clock and show fans in the City of Saints what he can do in an 82-game season. The sniper forward made that clear with a bold statement on his offseason work so far.
“I’ve been able to train well and, above all, be healthy for the first time in a long time,” Laine revealed, via Finnish site Helsingin Sanomat. “It’s been a big thing now that I haven’t had to struggle with minor injuries or other challenges. Since the beginning of July, I’ve been on the ice almost every day. Definitely more than normal.”
Sink or swim
It’s certainly a sight fans in Montreal love to see. A healthy Laine can be a significant threat to the rest of the league and an ace up the Habs’ sleeve. Plus, the forward is entering the final year of his four-year, $34.8 million extension. Being available and producing is in his best interest, as well as Montreal’s.