Calgary Flames forward Nazem Kadri is one of the top trade candidates in the NHL this season. With the Flames being in the middle of a retool, it is certainly possible that they could move on from the 35-year-old center if he lands them a big trade return. However, Kadri has had a tough season. He recently snapped a very long goal drought.
With Kadri being one of the best centers available for trade, it is unsurprising to hear that he is generating plenty of interest right now.
According to TSN’s Darren Dreger, the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche, Los Angeles Kings, and Dallas Stars have all shown interest in Kadri.
“I would say there’s some developing interest. There is some tire-kicking from Toronto, Montreal, Colorado, LA, maybe the Dallas Stars,” Dreger said in regards to Kadri’s trade market.
Flames’ Kadri Would Be A Good Addition For Any Of These Clubs
The Maple Leafs would certainly be a fascinating landing spot for Kadri, as he spent the first 10 seasons of his NHL career in Toronto. He would certainly have the potential to give the Maple Leafs’ forward group a nice boost. Yet, it would also likely cost Toronto a lot to land Kadri due to Calgary’s past history with Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving.
The Canadiens’ interest in Kadri is not difficult to understand. The Canadiens need another high-impact center, and landing Kadri would provide them with just that.
A reunion between Kadri and the Avalanche would make sense if it came to fruition. Kadri undoubtedly had plenty of success during his time in Colorado and played a big role in them winning the Stanley Cup in 2022. A lethal trio of Nathan MacKinnon, Brock Nelson, and Kadri down the middle would make the Avalanche an even more dominant team.
The Kings looking to make a splash for a center like Kadri is also understandable. The Kings have struggled with consistency this season and could use another star forward in their lineup because of it. Furthermore, with Anze Kopitar in his final season, bringing in a center with multiple years left on his deal would make sense for LA.
As for the Stars, they undoubtedly could use another top-six forward with Tyler Seguin’s season in jeopardy after undergoing ACL surgery. Kadri would be a strong fit on a Stars club that is looking to win their first Stanley Cup since 1999.
