Mason McTavish, a center for the Anaheim Ducks, is acknowledging his current performance challenges. During an optional practice at Great Park Ice in Irvine, California, he candidly addressed his recent slump following a third-period demotion to the fourth line in the Ducks’ close 3-2 overtime victory over Utah.
McTavish Reflects on Performance
At just 22 years old, McTavish is committed to turning things around. “It hasn’t been my best at all,” he stated. “I know I have more to give. I need to play more assertively and trust my instincts.”
Recent Performance Overview
This season started promisingly for McTavish, who signed a six-year, $42 million contract and was named the franchise’s No. 2 center. He recorded four points in the first two games and six points in the first six. However, his production has dipped dramatically, tallying just one point in the last six games.
- First two games: 4 points
- First six games: 6 points
- Last six games: 1 point
- Last nine games: 3 points, with one goal being an empty-netter
Despite his struggles, the Ducks maintain a record of 6-3-0 during this period. McTavish’s linemates, Cutter Gauthier and Beckett Sennecke, have managed to find success, with Gauthier scoring five goals and Sennecke contributing three goals.
The Penalty Issue
A significant concern for McTavish is his tendency to take penalties. He leads the team in minor penalties, having accrued 13, far more than any teammate. In a recent game against Detroit, he committed three penalties and was benched for nearly 18 minutes after a critical turnover led to a goal.
“Taking that many penalties cannot happen,” McTavish admitted. “It hurts our chances to win, and I must clean that up.” His penalty issues have affected his ice time, with his two lowest minutes being 10:14 and 12:17.
Coaching Perspective
Ducks head coach Joel Quenneville has taken notice of McTavish’s need for improvement. The decision to swap him out for Jansen Harkins in the third period was partly to seek a faster energy and address his recent performance. Quenneville believes McTavish must enhance his assertiveness and decision-making to align with the team’s pace under his coaching style.
As McTavish navigates this period of reflection and adaptation, he recognizes the importance of moving past errors. Teams are adjusting to the Ducks’ new strategies, and adapting is key for maintaining scoring opportunities. “I need to get my game back and trust my skills,” he concluded.
Moving forward, McTavish’s ability to overcome his current hurdles will be crucial for both his personal development and the team’s success this season.
