The Montreal Canadiens are keeping a close eye on Calgary, and two names in particular are drawing serious attention: Nazem Kadri and Blake Coleman. According to NHL insider Darren Dreger, the Habs are among the teams with a strong appreciation for what Coleman brings to the ice.
But here’s the catch - prying him away from Flames GM Craig Conroy won’t be easy. It’s going to take a premium offer, and then some.
Let’s start with Coleman. He’s not a flashy name that dominates headlines, but he’s exactly the kind of player contending teams covet - gritty, responsible, and capable of chipping in offensively.
Despite Calgary’s up-and-down season, Coleman has quietly put together a solid campaign: 13 goals and 8 assists for 21 points in 44 games. That kind of production, combined with his two-way play and leadership qualities, makes him a valuable asset.
He’s under contract through the 2026-27 season on a six-year, $29 million deal, which adds both value and complexity to any potential trade.
Montreal’s interest in Coleman makes sense. They’re looking to solidify their middle six and add veteran presence to a young, evolving lineup.
But as Dreger pointed out, the question isn’t just “Do you want him?” - it’s “Are you willing to overpay to get him?” Conroy isn’t in a rush to move Coleman, and unless a team comes to the table with a compelling package, the Flames are content to hold onto one of their steadiest contributors.
Then there’s Nazem Kadri. The 35-year-old center has had a respectable season, posting 32 points (8 goals, 24 assists) through 47 games.
He’s still capable of driving play and providing offense, even if he’s not putting up the eye-popping numbers from his peak years. Kadri is signed to a seven-year, $49 million contract, so any team interested in acquiring him needs to be ready to take on term and cap hit - not just make a hockey trade.
Montreal, though, might be one of the few teams positioned to make that kind of move. GM Kent Hughes has been in the market for this type of player for months.
The Canadiens have the assets - a deep prospect pool and draft capital - to make something happen. But as Dreger noted, just because you can make a move doesn’t mean you should overpay.
There’s a fine line between being aggressive and being reckless, and Hughes knows it.
Still, the Canadiens are a team to watch. They’re not just window-shopping.
With up to six teams reportedly showing interest in Kadri, the market is heating up, and Montreal appears to be in the thick of it. Whether they pull the trigger on either player remains to be seen, but their intentions are clear: they want to get better down the middle, and they’re exploring every option to make it happen.
As the trade deadline inches closer, keep an eye on Calgary and Montreal. The Flames are sitting seventh in the Pacific Division with a 20-23-4 record, and decisions loom about the direction of the franchise.
Meanwhile, the Canadiens are looking to add the right veteran pieces to help guide their young core - and Kadri and Coleman both fit that mold. The only question now is whether the price will be right.