Bruins set sights on Mason McTavish to revive playoff aspirations through significant trade
The Boston Bruins are determined to erase memories of a disappointing season and emerge as serious playoff contenders once again. To achieve this goal, the team recognizes the urgent need for a dynamic first-line center. Bruins insider Connor Ryan of the Boston Globe has put forth a compelling argument for the team to pursue a high-profile trade for Mason McTavish of the Anaheim Ducks.
A Bold Strategy for a New Core
Ryan emphasizes that if the Bruins want to build a competitive roster alongside their veteran stars, they must establish a formidable one-two punch at center. With Elias Lindholm, now 30, potentially transitioning into a third-line role later in his career, acquiring McTavish would be a strategic move. Ryan stated, “If the Bruins want to build a new core alongside the usual suspects, they’re going to need to form a 1-2 punch with Hagens.”
Navigating the Trade Landscape
The path forward for Boston, Ryan notes, lies in either the draft or trades. While acquiring high draft picks remains an option, the Bruins, having replenished their prospect pool during last season’s rebuild, may prefer to secure an established player like McTavish. The potential acquisition of McTavish would not only be a game-changing trade but also solidify the Bruins’ center ice position for years to come.
With McTavish and promising prospect James Hagens at the helm, Boston could create one of the most formidable center duos in the NHL. McTavish, still a restricted free agent, would necessitate a contract extension upon trade, but his talent and potential make him a prime target.
The Cost of Acquiring McTavish
However, securing McTavish will not come cheap. Ryan suggests that the Bruins would likely need to part with significant assets, including multiple first-round draft picks and a mix of prospects and current NHL players. Speculations include a potential package involving two first-round picks, along with players like Fraser Minten or Matthew Poitras.
Ryan elaborates on the risks involved, stating, “If McTavish is actually available, the Bruins likely would need to relinquish a first-round pick or two, along with an intriguing prospect or young NHL player.” The decision to trade valuable first-round picks is fraught with risk, especially for a team in a retooling phase that could secure a top-10 pick in the upcoming draft.
Yet, the allure of adding a player like McTavish—who boasts established production and room for growth at just 21 years old—could outweigh the risks. Ryan adds, “But a player such as McTavish also represents a high-upside addition with established production and room to grow—especially given his age.”
Optimism for the Upcoming Season
McTavish, selected third overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, had a robust season last year, tallying 22 goals and 30 assists for a total of 52 points in 76 games. The Bruins, who finished among the lower tiers of the NHL standings last season, are eager to turn the page and make a strong playoff push this year.
The organization has made strategic moves during the offseason, and CEO Charlie Jacobs expressed confidence in the team’s ability to compete for a playoff spot. “I do feel, and we’ve spoken at great length about this, the team that we currently have, healthy, with the additions we intend to make this summer, I anticipate that we’ll have a playoff team and play meaningful hockey at this time of year in 2026,” Jacobs stated.
The Bruins are currently listed at +400 to make the playoffs, indicating a 20% chance of qualifying. The season opener is set for October 8 against the Washington Capitals, and all eyes will be on how Boston positions itself in the quest for postseason success.
