NHL News: NY Rangers join Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs, Canadiens in bidding war for promising Ducks RFA forward

The NHL’s restricted free agent (RFA) market is heating up—and Anaheim Ducks forward Mason McTavish has quickly emerged as one of the most sought-after names. As multiple franchises scramble to bolster their forward depth with young, high-impact talent, the New York Rangers have reportedly joined the race to acquire the 22-year-old, joining a growing list of serious contenders that includes Auston Matthews’ Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, and Buffalo Sabres.

According to NHL insider Roger Hicks, all four teams have expressed recent interest in McTavish, whose combination of skill, toughness, and positional versatility makes him one of the most attractive RFA options this offseason.

“The Canadiens, in particular, are known to be high on the Carp, Ontario native, while the Leafs could view McTavish as a bold addition to complement their forward depth with a younger, more physical presence,” Hicks reported. The result is a multi-team battle that could have ripple effects across the league.

A rare opportunity in Mason McTavish

Drafted third overall in 2021, McTavish brings the full package: scoring touch, two-way awareness, and a gritty, north-south style that NHL teams covet. His RFA status complicates the pursuit—Anaheim still retains his rights and can match any offer sheet—but it hasn’t deterred clubs from doing their homework. With 22 goals and 50 points last season, McTavish is trending toward becoming a reliable top-six forward.

His ability to play both center and wing adds further value, particularly for a team like the Rangers that’s aiming to retool without rebuilding. Adding McTavish could give New York the kind of youthful jolt it needs to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference. Still, Anaheim holds leverage—whether to match a future offer, negotiate a trade, or lock him up long-term.

Canadiens, Leafs, and Sabres also in the mix

Montreal appears especially invested. As Hicks noted, the Canadiens see McTavish as a potential foundational piece for their rebuild. Toronto, meanwhile, continues to reshape its roster around Auston Matthews, and could see McTavish as the ideal secondary scoring presence behind their top line.

The Sabres have also reportedly entered the conversation. With a young core and room to spend, they’re in a position to be aggressive this summer. With multiple playoff-hungry teams circling and a player whose prime is still ahead, the coming weeks could determine not just where Mason McTavish plays next season—but how bold the NHL’s summer gets.