Even without a signed contract, Mason McTavish is diligently preparing for the upcoming season.
The Anaheim Ducks` restricted free agent has reportedly started training with the OHL`s Ottawa 67s while awaiting a new deal.
Sources indicate that the primary sticking point in negotiations is the contract length, with the Ducks favoring a long-term agreement over a short-term bridge deal. A mutual understanding has yet to be reached by both parties.
Following Trevor Zegras`s departure during the off-season, McTavish has emerged as a key young leader for the Ducks, with expectations for him to significantly advance in his fifth NHL season.
Last season, he achieved personal bests with 22 goals and 30 assists, also recording his highest average ice time at 16:53 per game.
McTavish remains one of two prominent restricted free agents without a contract, the other being defenseman Luke Hughes of the New Jersey Devils.
Duncan Priestley