The Anaheim Ducks are facing a major setback as their star center, Mason McTavish, is absent from training camp due to a contract dispute. General manager Pat Verbeek expressed his disappointment at the situation, noting that the team is gearing up for a new season without one of their key players. McTavish, a 22-year-old restricted free agent, has been unable to reach a long-term contract agreement with the Ducks after months of negotiations, leaving his future with the team uncertain.
Verbeek highlighted the challenges of McTavish’s absence, especially as the team transitions to a new coaching staff led by Joel Quenneville. The GM emphasized the importance of training camp in preparing players for the upcoming season and expressed concerns about McTavish’s ability to catch up once he rejoins the team. Despite McTavish’s significant contributions to the Ducks in recent seasons, including a career-best performance last year, the contract dispute remains unresolved, putting his role on the team in jeopardy.
The Ducks have high hopes for McTavish as their second-line center, but his absence raises questions about the team’s prospects for the upcoming season. Verbeek acknowledged the ongoing negotiations with McTavish’s camp and expressed optimism about reaching a resolution soon. However, the situation remains unresolved, leaving the Ducks without a key player as they aim to make a playoff push under Quenneville’s guidance. The absence of McTavish poses a significant challenge for the team, as they look to build on their progress from last season and secure a spot in the postseason.
