Trade rumors swirl yet again around Mason McTavish, with whispers suggesting Patrick Kane‘s Detroit Red Wings as a potential landing spot if the Anaheim Ducks fail to re-sign him. Given the intertwined professional history between Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman and Ducks GM Pat Verbeek, speculation is hardly surprising. But this proposed trade is fundamentally flawed.
While Yzerman and Verbeek share a deep connection—both former teammates and executives—personal ties alone don’t justify trade feasibility. Just as Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon’s summer camaraderie hasn’t sparked serious trade talks, familiarity does not guarantee a deal.
In truth, the Ducks’ priority this offseason is to strengthen their defense, targeting right-shot, mobile defensemen to shore up a thin blue line. Meanwhile, the Red Wings are navigating a similar challenge. According to analyst Todd Matthews, “For this trade to materialize, Detroit would likely have to part with a future top-pairing defenseman—an asset Yzerman has spent the entire offseason safeguarding.”
Why a McTavish move to Red Wings doesn’t add up
Detroit’s front office has made it clear that defensive structure and goal suppression remain their Achilles’ heel. They are not in need of more offensive talent. Sacrificing valuable defensive prospects or depth to acquire McTavish, a forward, would directly contradict their carefully crafted offseason strategy.
Mason McTavish #23 of the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center on February 04, 2025 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
On the other hand, if McTavish departs Anaheim, the Chicago Blackhawks offer a more logical fit. With rookie phenom Connor Bedard needing solid support both offensively and defensively, McTavish’s two-way, physical play style and 25–30 goal potential would provide critical balance. Chicago also has the draft capital and prospects to make a meaningful trade.
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Red Wings’ priorities
Detroit isn’t lacking offense—they have plenty of scorers. Their glaring weakness is defensive structure and goal suppression. Sacrificing valuable defensive assets to acquire McTavish would undermine the careful rebuild their front office has pursued.
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While Yzerman and Verbeek’s friendship might spark headlines, it should not override sound roster management. A trade for McTavish would risk unraveling Detroit’s defensive recalibration—something the team can ill afford.
