Mason McTavish has signed a six-year deal with the Anaheim Ducks. The financial details aren’t public, but both the team and McTavish are excited about this new chapter.
Anaheim’s general manager, Pat Verbeek, emphasized the importance of getting McTavish to training camp. He said, “Training camp is key for preparing for the season. We were eager to have Mason get some reps in, not just to learn new systems, but also to get in shape.”
At just 22, McTavish was a restricted free agent last season. He led the Ducks with 22 goals and was second in points with 52 over 76 games. “Today is special for my family and me,” he said. “I believe in the Ducks. We’re building something great, and I want to help us become a playoff contender and a championship team.”
The Ducks picked McTavish third overall in the 2021 NHL Draft. So far, he has tallied 140 points (60 goals and 80 assists) in 229 games.
Verbeek recognizes McTavish’s significance to the team. He described him as a skilled and competitive player who contributes positively to the game. “Mason has already made a significant impact at a young age,” he added. “We’re confident he will keep growing as we strive for success.”
Last season, Anaheim struggled with a record of 35-37-10, marking their seventh consecutive season without playoffs. Recently, they hired three-time Stanley Cup champion Joel Quenneville as head coach.
Verbeek hopes McTavish will play in the Ducks’ last preseason game against the Los Angeles Kings on October 4, just before the season opener against the Seattle Kraken on October 9. He mentioned McTavish has been practicing with the Ottawa 67s, but NHL pace is different, and they’ll monitor his readiness closely.
Recent statistics highlight that teams with young, talented players often see improved performance over time. A recent analysis revealed that young stars can significantly boost their teams’ chances of making the playoffs, underscoring the importance of nurturing talent like McTavish.
In the world of sports, fan reactions can provide insight into a player’s impact. Social media buzz around McTavish indicates that fans are hopeful and eager for the upcoming season. The excitement for a potential playoff push adds to the anticipation surrounding this new contract.
Overall, the Ducks are investing in their future, and McTavish is a big part of that. With the right support and continued growth, he could help lead the Ducks back into playoff contention.
Source link
