Anaheim Ducks Struggle with Mason McTavish's Slump

Young forward benched as team fights for playoff spot

Mar. 20, 2026 at 10:20am

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Mason McTavish, a 23-year-old forward for the Anaheim Ducks, has hit a rough patch, going scoreless in his last five games and becoming a healthy scratch. This comes after a lengthy contract dispute that may have impacted his play. The Ducks are still in playoff contention, giving McTavish a chance to turn things around, but his struggles raise concerns about his long-term future with the team.

Why it matters

McTavish was expected to be a key part of the Ducks' future, but his recent slump and benchings are concerning for the team as they fight for a playoff spot. The Ducks will need McTavish to regain his form if they hope to make a postseason run.

The details

In his last five games, McTavish has recorded just three total shots and no points. He was a healthy scratch in the Ducks' most recent game, a 3-2 overtime loss to the Philadelphia Flyers. For the season, McTavish has 32 points (13 goals, 19 assists) in 61 games. The Ducks' decision to bench the talented young forward suggests they are not pleased with his recent play.

  • McTavish was scratched from the Ducks' game on March 20, 2026.

The players

Mason McTavish

A 23-year-old forward for the Anaheim Ducks who is struggling with a scoring slump and has been a healthy scratch.

Anaheim Ducks

The NHL team that McTavish plays for, who are currently fighting for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.

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What they’re saying

“Mason McTavish was scratched again Wednesday as the Ducks lost 3-2 to Philadelphia in overtime. You can always rewrite your own narrative, and Anaheim has several big games to play yet this season.”

— Elliotte Friedman, Sportsnet Analyst

What’s next

The Ducks will need McTavish to regain his scoring touch if they hope to make the playoffs. His performance in the team's remaining games this season will be crucial.

The takeaway

McTavish's struggles are a concerning development for the Ducks, who were counting on the young forward to be a key part of their future. The team will need him to rediscover his game quickly if they want to secure a playoff spot this season.