Contract Stalemate for McTavish
As the NHL training camps kick off, a notable absence looms over the Anaheim Ducks. Young star Mason McTavish remains without a contract, marking a significant delay as the team embarks on its preseason activities. The 21-year-old forward, who made a name for himself last season, is currently skating with the Ottawa 67s in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) as negotiations between his camp and the Ducks remain stalled.
Training Camp Tensions
The start of training camp typically signifies a fresh beginning for NHL teams, but for McTavish, it underscores an ongoing impasse. His decision to skate with the 67s highlights the urgency of his situation. While he continues to hone his skills in the OHL, the Ducks are navigating a delicate negotiation landscape.
Prominent sports insider Elliotte Friedman provided updates on the situation through social media, noting the complexities at play. “With training camp on-ice sessions beginning today, Mason McTavish is skating with the OHL’s Ottawa 67s. The contract stalemate continues in Anaheim. It’s believed the Ducks prefer not to do a bridge, but no common ground yet,” Friedman reported.
Negotiation Dynamics
The crux of the issue appears to center around the Ducks’ preference for a long-term deal rather than a bridge contract, which would be a shorter-term agreement typically used for younger players. This preference indicates the team’s desire to secure McTavish’s services for an extended period, reflecting their trust in his potential to be a cornerstone player. However, the absence of consensus on contract terms leaves both sides in a tense standoff as training camp progresses.
In the meantime, McTavish’s choice to skate with the 67s not only provides him with game-like scenarios but also keeps him in competitive shape as he awaits resolution on his contract situation. As the Ducks prepare for the upcoming season, the pressing question remains: how long can this stalemate last before a resolution is reached?
