Mason McTavish and Anaheim Ducks Lock in 6-Year $42 Million Deal The Athletic Reports
Exciting Contract Extension: Mason McTavish Secures Long-Term Future with Anaheim Ducks
McTavish’s Impact and Career Highlights
Mason McTavish, a pivotal player for the Anaheim Ducks, has signed a six-year, $42 million contract, ensuring his stay in Southern California until 2029. At 22, McTavish led the team with a career-high 22 goals and 30 assists last season. Anaheim Ducks’ General Manager, Pat Verbeek, confirmed that McTavish has a limited no-trade clause for the final two years of the agreement.
Commitment to the Anaheim Ducks
McTavish expressed his excitement about the long-term commitment, stating, “Today is an exciting day for me and my family to commit my long-term future to the Anaheim Ducks. We’re building something special, and I want to help this team take the next step toward becoming a consistent playoff contender and, ultimately, a championship team.”
Verbeek echoed the sentiment, highlighting McTavish as a key player in the Ducks’ future, “He’s a highly skilled, physical, and competitive player who plays the game the right way. Mason has already made a significant impact at a young age, and we’re confident he’ll continue to grow into a top player as we build toward sustained success.”
Negotiation Process and Training Camp
The contract negotiations were intense but necessary. Verbeek explained, “Both of us, we have our processes. Ultimately both sides realize you have to get the player into camp.” McTavish, the 2021 No. 3 overall draft pick, has already amassed 60 goals and 80 assists over 229 NHL games.
McTavish is set to fly to Southern California over the weekend to join his teammates in his first practice with the Ducks on Monday.
Future of Anaheim’s Young Core
The Ducks view McTavish as a foundational piece amid efforts to establish themselves as regular playoff contenders. Verbeek managed challenging negotiations with other RFAs like Trevor Zegras and Jamie Drysdale, who were eventually traded. With McTavish secured, the focus will now turn to 20-year-old center Leo Carlsson, who can become an RFA next summer after his entry-level contract expires.
Salary Cap Considerations
McTavish’s contract, with an average annual value (AAV) of $7 million, aligns with fellow winger Troy Terry and new addition Mikael Granlund. The Ducks have the potential to free up an additional $16 million in cap space by opting not to extend contracts for Jacob Trouba, Radko Gudas, and goalie Petr Mrazek, providing financial flexibility for future negotiations.
El-Balad will continue to bring you updates on the Anaheim Ducks and their journey to the playoffs as this dynamic young roster evolves.
