Ducks initiate rebuilding with trades

The Anaheim Ducks have ignited rebuilding discussions following significant trades involving Mason McTavish and Olen Zellweger. On March 30, 2026, the Ducks traded center Mason McTavish, a 23-year-old former third overall pick, to the St.

Louis Blues in exchange for two first-round picks in the 2026 NHL Draft, specifically the 15th and 29th overall selections. McTavish, who had 17 goals and 24 assists in 75 games during the 2025-26 season, was originally signed to a six-year, $42 million contract extension prior to this season but saw a decline in performance, leading to his trade, as reported by Deadspin and Yahoo Sports.

The Ducks selected forward Nikita Klepov with the 15th overall pick, a highly regarded prospect from the Ontario Hockey League. Following this, on April 4, 2026, the Ducks traded defenseman Olen Zellweger to the Buffalo Sabres for a second-round pick and prospect Anton Wahlberg.

Zellweger, 22, registered 22 points over 76 games this past season and is set to become a restricted free agent, as noted by Deadspin and Sabre Noise. The Ducks now hold two second-round picks in the upcoming draft, raising questions about their future direction as they continue their rebuilding efforts.