Habs analyst gives honest opinion on Canadiens trading David Reinbacher for Mason McTavish in potential blockbuster deal

Habs analyst Eric Macramalla recently shared his opinion about a potential trade involving Montreal Canadiens prospect David Reinbacher for Anaheim Ducks forward Mason McTavish.

According to trade rumors, Reinbacher and McTavish are part of discussions for a potential blockbuster deal between the Canadiens and the Ducks. However, Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek reportedly has a high asking price, seeking a top-tier prospect like Reinbacher or equivalent assets.

Proposed trade packages include Reinbacher plus a 2026 or 2027 first-round pick, or multi-player deals involving top prospects. Macramalla said trading Reinbacher would leave a significant gap on the Canadiens’ blue line, making the deal unfavorable.

Amid interest from the Ducks, the Canadiens are reportedly reluctant to trade him, as doing so would weaken their blue line, an area already lacking depth on the right side. Reinbacher was drafted fifth by the Canadiens in the 2023 NHL draft.

The 20-year-old is viewed as a potential top-pairing defenseman with strong offensive instincts. He has yet to appear in an NHL game for the Canadiens.

Canadiens' Patrik Laine optimistic about fresh start without injury setback for new season

Patrik Laine was traded to the Canadiens from the Columbus Blue Jackets in August 2024.

A knee injury during the preseason sidelined him for three months, limiting him to 52 regular-season games. With the new season approaching, Laine is aiming for a healthy, fresh start:

"I've been able to train well and, above all, be healthy for the first time in a long time. It's been a big thing now that I haven't had to struggle with minor injuries or other challenges." Laine said. (per Helsingin Sanomat).

"Now I've been able to train fully since May. It's a slightly different starting point for the season, as you don't have to start while recovering.

Laine recorded 33 points on 20 goals and 13 assists in his debut season with Montreal. The 27-year-old Finnish winger is signed to a four-year, $34.8 million contract.

Also Read: WATCH: Canadiens HC Martin St. Louis attends Lasso country music festival in Montreal

About the author

Abhishek is an NHL writer at Sportskeeda with over 2 years of sports reporting experience and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Delhi. He became a fan of ice hockey after watching NHL fight videos on YouTube, which led to him professionally writing about the sport and his continued interest in all things hockey.

A fan of the Boston Bruins, Abhishek considers their incredible comeback win against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2013 playoffs as the most iconic moment in the NHL. His admiration for the six-time Stanley Cup winners also comes from the team’s storied history, distinctive black and gold uniform and their success in the sport. His all-time favorite NHL players are Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid, for their ability to perform at the highest level consistently.

Abhishek ensures his reporting is fair and balanced by being well-researched in his details, which he expects to be relevant, up-to-date and in line with ethical standards. His specialties are doing detailed match analysis and covering fan reactions.

Abhishek enjoys music, traveling and going on walks with his three German Shepherds in his free time, along with learning about horticulture.

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Edited by Abhishek Dilta