The Montreal Canadiens are targeting a second-line center as they prepare for the offseason. While Nazem Kadri of the Calgary Flames is on their radar, complications regarding his contract may lead them to explore younger options, notably Mason McTavish of the Anaheim Ducks.

At just 22 years old, McTavish is garnering attention following a strong season with 22 goals and 30 assists in 76 games. NHL insider Jeff Marek claims he is more available than ever due to the Ducks' changing priorities under GM Pat Verbeek. Teams like Montreal and Minnesota are in the market for a center, and McTavish could be a key target.

Although Kadri remains a potential acquisition, his $7 million annual cap hit complicates any trade. The Canadiens are about $6 million over the salary cap, which poses additional challenges in a deal. The Habs have young assets and picks that could entice the Flames, but the financial terms must be favorable for both sides.

The start of the 2025 NHL season is approaching, and many fantasy managers are preparing for their drafts with a focus on emerging young talent. Players like Matty Beniers and Connor Bedard are at the forefront, showing exceptional promise based on their performances last season.

Teams are also making significant roster adjustments. The Seattle Kraken aim to build upon their playoff success with key acquisitions, while the Chicago Blackhawks are relying heavily on Bedard to shift their fortunes. Monitoring player injuries and offseason trades will be crucial for fantasy managers looking to secure a competitive edge.

The NHL landscape is ever-evolving, and recent player performances are shaking things up just in time for the upcoming fantasy season. Key players like Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers and Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs are highlighted as must-have assets, given their impressive stats and impact on their teams' success. With McDavid's lethal scoring ability and Matthews' versatility, fantasy owners are urged to prioritize them in their drafts.

In contrast, emerging talents such as Matty Beniers from the Seattle Kraken and Leo Carlsson of the Anaheim Ducks are gaining traction among fantasy enthusiasts. Their performances not only reflect potential breakout seasons but also offer fantastic value in later rounds. Strategizing around these players could be the difference between a title run and a disappointing finish.

The upcoming NHL season is set to feature a number of promising rookies that fantasy managers should keep a close eye on. One standout is Connor Bedard of the Chicago Blackhawks, who is expected to make an immediate impact. Known for his quick skating and offensive prowess, Bedard's performance will be crucial as he transitions into the league. Additionally, Adam Fantilli, joining the Columbus Blue Jackets, brings a mix of speed and skill that could see him contributing significantly in his rookie season.

Other notable newcomers include Leo Carlsson, drafted by the Anaheim Ducks, whose versatility as a forward makes him a valuable asset for the team. Fans can also look forward to watching Matvei Michkov, a highly touted prospect, who aims to showcase his offensive talent in the NHL. With these young stars entering the league, the competitive landscape of fantasy hockey is about to get even more dynamic.