In a flurry of pre-Olympic Break activity, the NHL saw two major trades shake up the landscape. The Calgary Flames dealt defenseman Rasmus Andersson to the Vegas Golden Knights, while the New York Rangers sent forward Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings. With these significant moves, the spotlight now shifts to Flames forward Nazem Kadri, who's become the center of trade discussions.
Anthony Di Marco from the Daily Faceoff shared insights on TSN Radio in Montreal, highlighting Kadri as the primary trade target. Unlike Panarin and Andersson, Kadri isn't a rental player.
He carries a $7 million cap hit with three years remaining on his contract, making him an intriguing option for teams looking to bolster their lineup. His Stanley Cup-winning experience and the scarcity of available left centers add to his appeal.
Kadri's name has circulated in trade rumors for some time, but with the Flames struggling this season, speculation has intensified. Although he isn't matching last season's numbers, his skill set could be a valuable asset for a contending team.
Initially, Kadri expressed a desire to stay in Calgary and contribute to their success, but he seems more open to a move if the Flames initiate discussions. However, GM Craig Conroy is firm on his asking price, meaning any team interested will need to present an irresistible offer before the trade deadline.
The Flames face crucial decisions regarding their retention slots, with players like Blake Coleman, Ryan Lomberg, and potentially MacKenzie Weegar also in the mix. Having retained Andersson and still holding part of Jacob Markstrom's salary after his trade to the New Jersey Devils, the Flames must navigate their retention strategy carefully.
While Kadri remains the top trade target, the situation is still evolving, and a move isn't guaranteed. Keep an eye on how the Flames handle these negotiations as the deadline approaches.