Rumors about Nazem Kadri potentially returning to the Toronto Maple Leafs have gained momentum, with various insiders, including Doug MacLean and Jeff Marek, speculating on the possibility. The Leafs, in need of center depth, could see Kadri as a valuable addition to their roster, especially for a playoff push. His familiarity with the team and connections to the organization make him a logical fit, though his $7 million cap hit and the length of his contract present challenges.
The Leafs would likely need the Flames to retain part of Kadri’s salary, and any trade would probably involve players like David Kampf, Connor Dewar, and draft picks to make it work under the cap. While Kadri has expressed openness to returning to Toronto, the Flames’ current playoff position may delay any potential trade unless their performance declines closer to the trade deadline.
Nazem Kadri’s name continues to be linked to the Toronto Maple Leafs due to the team’s need for toughness and center depth, especially when considering their struggles against physical opponents like the Florida Panthers. Jeff Marek emphasized that Toronto is evaluating how to navigate their division, noting that Kadri’s physicality and presence down the middle could make a critical difference. This idea is echoed by Doug MacLean and Eric Francis, who also believe Kadri’s combination of grit and scoring ability would help Toronto in a playoff series against heavy-hitting teams.
MacLean highlighted Kadri’s ability to change the dynamic in a tough playoff series, reiterating that the Leafs need a player with Kadri’s profile to overcome teams like the Panthers. The challenge, however, remains fitting his contract within Toronto’s cap constraints and negotiating terms with the Flames.
Eric Francis, during an appearance on The FAN Hockey Show, highlighted that while the Calgary Flames are currently competitive, they might entertain trade offers for Nazem Kadri if their season takes a turn. This aligns with the idea that Toronto could benefit from Kadri’s physicality and depth if Calgary shifts into a seller’s mindset later in the season
For the Flames, moving Kadri could offer financial flexibility and future assets, especially if they fall out of playoff contention. However, for now, Calgary remains focused on staying competitive. Should their playoff hopes diminish, Kadri’s trade value could attract significant interest, particularly from teams like the Maple Leafs who need his unique skill set.
Eric Francis noted on The FAN Hockey Show that while Nazem Kadri is not actively being shopped by the Calgary Flames, the team could consider moving him if the right offer emerges. His versatility and ability to slot in as a second-line center would appeal to many teams, just as it did during Colorado’s 2022 Stanley Cup run. Kadri’s experience and two-way play are valuable assets, but the Flames’ focus remains on competing for now.
For the Toronto Maple Leafs, acquiring Kadri would require creative maneuvering due to his $7 million cap hit, which extends through 2028. Any deal would likely involve salary retention by the Flames and include a package of players and draft picks from Toronto. The connection between Leafs GM Brad Treliving and Kadri, stemming from their time together in Calgary, could help facilitate discussions. Kadri’s current performance—15 points in 25 games—reflects his continued offensive contributions, making him an attractive option for teams needing a mix of toughness and scoring.