Nazem Kadri’s name is heating up on the NHL trade market, and it's not just smoke-there’s real fire behind the chatter. The Calgary Flames alternate captain is drawing interest from a growing list of teams looking to shore up their center depth ahead of the deadline. And with Kadri’s experience, edge, and proven playoff chops, it’s easy to see why.
According to recent reports, teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Dallas Stars, Colorado Avalanche, and LA Kings have all kicked the tires on the veteran center. But keep an eye on the Minnesota Wild.
They’re reportedly in the mix as well, and they’ve already shown this season they’re not afraid to swing big-just look at their acquisition of Quinn Hughes back in December. Minnesota’s looking to add a center, and Kadri fits the mold: a battle-tested, two-way pivot who can log heavy minutes and deliver when it counts.
Kadri’s production this season-nine goals and 25 assists through 49 games-might not jump off the page, but it’s the context that matters. He’s still a reliable top-six option, capable of anchoring a line and elevating his game in high-leverage situations. That kind of presence down the middle is exactly what playoff-bound teams are hunting for.
But here’s where things get tricky: the contract. Kadri is in the fourth year of a seven-year, $49 million deal he signed with Calgary, carrying a $7 million annual cap hit through the 2028-29 season.
That’s a big number for any team to absorb, especially with the salary cap still tight across much of the league. Plus, Kadri holds a 13-team no-trade list, giving him some say in where he goes next.
That’s why salary retention is expected to be a key part of any deal. Interested teams are reportedly making it clear: if Calgary wants to get something done, they’ll need to be open to retaining a portion of Kadri’s salary. And if the Flames are willing to eat some of that cap hit, they’ll be looking for more value in return-whether that’s in the form of prospects, picks, or a combination of both.
With recent trades like Josh Anderson and Kiefer Sherwood already shaking up the market, the door is opening for more movement. Kadri’s situation is one to watch closely.
He’s got the kind of skill set and playoff resume that could make a real difference for a contender. And if the Flames are ready to make a move-and willing to get creative with the cap-don’t be surprised to see Kadri wearing a new jersey before long.