NHL News: Patrik Laine’s Canadiens urged to bolster key roster area amid pursuit of coveted Ducks RFA Mason McTavish

The Montreal Canadiens, led by Patrik Laine,have been working to bolster their roster throughout the offseason, but so far, activity has been limited to just one trade. Despite this, the rumor mill has been buzzing — particularly with the Anaheim Ducks’ restricted free agent (RFA) center Mason McTavish often linked to Montreal.

McTavish, the Ducks’ second-line center, emerged as a name to watch early in the offseason. Many believed Canadiens GM Kent Hughes could make a strong push to acquire him, especially given the team’s need for added scoring punch. However, a respected NHL insider has now thrown cold water on those expectations.

Speaking on the Shaun Starr Show, NHL insider Marco D’Amico stated, “The only thing that would grab Anaheim’s attention is a top-tier D-man,” before noting that the Canadiens already have one in Noah Dobson and a promising projection in David Reinbacher — neither of whom they’re willing to move.

Why the Canadiens won’t pursue McTavish now

D’Amico emphasized that Montreal’s defensive structure is their greatest asset and shouldn’t be compromised. He pointed out that winning teams have a stable, high-minute top-four defensive core, and the Canadiens are building toward that model with Noah Dobson, Kaiden Guhle, Lane Hutson, and David Reinbacher.

Mason McTavish showcasing his skills as one of the most coveted restricted free agents in the NHL offseason.(Photo by Rich Gagnon/Getty Images)

While the team could still make adjustments to the bottom defensive pair, trading from their top four for McTavish would leave them exposed defensively. “If that’s the vision, I don’t necessarily see the Canadiens trying to fill one hole by exposing themselves on the other,” D’Amico explained.

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Financial and roster obstacles remain

Even if interest in McTavish resurfaced, the Ducks’ trade demands and Montreal’s current cap situation make a deal difficult. According to D’Amico, the Canadiens are more likely to wait for the right opportunity rather than forcing a high-risk move. With playoff contention still a work in progress, Montreal appears committed to protecting its defensive core — even at the expense of missing out on a player like McTavish.