As a new season dawns, Nazem Kadri remains the topic of trade speculation. The 35-year-old Calgary Flames center has frequently surfaced in the rumor mill since the summer of 2024, and recently earned a spot on our August NHL Trade Block Big Board.
Kadri has repeatedly denied any intention of asking the retooling Flames for a trade. He’s signed through 2028-29 with an average annual value of $7 million. He also has a full no-movement clause for this season, which becomes a 13-team no-trade list on July 1 for the remainder of his contract.
Nevertheless, speculation persists that Kadri could become a trade candidate. During an Oct. 3 interview with the Flames Nation Barn Burner podcast, TSN’s Darren Dreger said it felt like a long shot that Kadri could be traded this season, but didn’t rule out the possibility of a move at the March trade deadline.
Dreger believes several teams could benefit from Kadri’s aggressive two-way skills, such as the Montreal Canadiens, Vancouver Canucks, and his former team, the Toronto Maple Leafs. If Kadri became available, Dreger believes the Flames would seek a high asking price.
Dreger suggested Kadri could become available at the March trade deadline if the Flames were out of playoff contention. Otherwise, he doesn’t see him moving. If the Flames were to peddle him, they might be better off waiting until July 1, when his full no-movement clause ends.
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