The Flyers have been linked to Mason McTavish in trade rumors, and it’s plausible they will pursue him.
McTavish (23, drafted 3rd overall in 2021) is a big, physical center/wing with some scoring upside who signed a 6-year, $42M deal ($7M AAV) with the Anaheim Ducks in 2025. He had a disappointing 2025-26 season (around 41 points in 75 games, with reports of healthy scratches late in the year and playoffs), missing training camp due to contract talks and never fully finding his game.
Insiders like Pierre LeBrun have reported that the Ducks are making McTavish available or at least fielding calls after his down year, with a change of scenery seen as potentially beneficial. Multiple teams have shown interest (e.g., Canadiens, Senators, Blues, Red Wings, and others).
Flyers Connections and Fit
- The Flyers have prior trade history with Anaheim (Cutter Gauthier for Jamie Drysdale, then Ryan Poehling for Trevor Zegras), so GM’s Danny Briere and Pat Verbeek have a working relationship.
- Philly needs center help and secondary scoring. McTavish’s size, net-front presence, and physicality could appeal in a Rick Tocchet system, though skating and consistency are noted weaknesses.
- He’s been explicitly named as a potential target in reports (e.g., Ottawa Citizen/Bruce Garrioch, Jamey Baskow)
McTavish’s production was lower than Noah Cates’ in a tough environment, and the team may prioritize higher-upside or faster players. Others question overpaying or see him more as a 2C/3C ceiling guy.
Trade Feasibility
A deal would likely cost a first-round pick + prospect(s) or young NHL player(s), given his age, contract term (several years left), and pedigree. The Flyers have assets (including Toronto’s 2027 1st) and cap space but would need to weigh it against other center options.
Some want the scoring help and “payback” angle with Anaheim, others see him as not transformative enough or a skating liability.
Bottom line
McTavish is realistically available, the Flyers have been connected, and another deal with Anaheim isn’t far-fetched given history and needs. Whether Briere pulls the trigger depends on the asking price and internal view of McTavish’s upside. It’s a rumor to watch through the draft and summer.
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