The Montreal Canadiens appear eager to take another step forward this offseason, but one question still seems to hover over the roster. Despite building an exciting young foundation, the team remains one impact center away from giving its forward group the balance needed to compete at a higher level behind captain Nick Suzuki.
With training camp inching closer, it feels increasingly likely that management will continue searching for answers. Recent reports suggest the Canadiens have revisited a familiar option, and that renewed interest has turned the spotlight toward Anaheim, where one young center's future is beginning to generate plenty of intrigue.
The player at the center of the speculation is Mason McTavish, and Montreal's interest appears far from a passing inquiry.
According to NHL insider James Murphy, the Canadiens recently checked back in with the Anaheim Ducks regarding McTavish's availability.
In his Sick Podcast column, Murphy reported that two league sources confirmed Montreal had renewed contact. One source told Murphy , "They circled back and called on him. I don't think it's at the point of serious discussions or exchanging trade scenarios, but the Habs let it be known they're still interested."
The report is significant because it suggests Montreal continues to view McTavish as a potential solution to a long-standing roster need. General manager Kent Hughes has reportedly been searching for a top-six center who can support Suzuki and help balance the lineup.
At just 23 years old and already signed long-term, McTavish fits the age range of Montreal's emerging core.
Anaheim Ducks center Mason McTavish. Mandatory Credit: Corinne Votaw-Imagn Images
Anaheim, however, is not expected to make any deal easily. Despite a difficult 2025-26 season, McTavish remains a former third overall pick with substantial upside. He is under contract through the 2030-31 season on a six-year, $42 million deal carrying a $7 million cap hit.
His value has been complicated by a season in which his role shrank within Anaheim's lineup. McTavish produced 41 points in 75 games, which is a drop from his season high of 52 points, and spent portions of the year on the third line.
Reports also pointed to tension with head coach Joel Quenneville regarding defensive play and overall accountability. The situation escalated during the playoffs when McTavish was scratched for two postseason games, an unusual development for a player viewed as part of the Ducks' foundation.
Even with those setbacks, Anaheim still controls a valuable asset. Murphy reported that one source believes the Ducks' asking price could begin with top Canadiens prospect Michael Hage. Other potential demands could include premium young assets or high draft picks, reflecting Anaheim's leverage in any negotiations.
That asking price could already be raising eyebrows around the league.
Some analysts have warned Montreal against sacrificing cornerstone pieces from its rebuilding plan. Moving a high-end prospect or a key young defenseman could solve one problem while creating another.
Financially, the Canadiens can make a McTavish deal work, but roster adjustments would likely be necessary. Montreal currently has limited cap flexibility, and moving a veteran contract could become part of the equation if trade talks advance.
For now, there is no indication that negotiations have reached an advanced stage. Still, Montreal's renewed interest shows the organization remains aggressive in its search for center help.
Whether that pursuit ultimately lands McTavish or leads to another target, the Canadiens have made it clear they are still shopping for a major addition down the middle.
