Ducks trade Mason McTavish to Blues at NHL Draft for two first-round picks
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The Anaheim Ducks traded Mason McTavish to the St. Louis Blues during the first round of the NHL Draft in exchange for the Nos. 15 and 29 picks, subsequently selecting Nikita Klepov at No. 15.
- McTavish, a 23-year-old forward entering his second season on a six-year, $42 million contract, experienced a regressive 2025-26 season with the Ducks, leading to his trade.
- The Blues acquired McTavish to bolster their roster with a versatile, physical forward who can play center or wing, addressing their need for players aged 23-26 with long-term potential.
- McTavish struggled defensively and with speed in Anaheim's up-tempo system, losing his second-line center role and being scratched multiple times during the 2025-26 season and playoffs.
- Nikita Klepov, selected by the Ducks with the No. 15 pick, is a promising 18-year-old dual U.S.-Russian citizen who led the OHL in scoring and has committed to Michigan State after one junior hockey season.
