Maple Leafs Among Nazem Kadri Suitors After Flames' Blockbuster Trade

The Calgary Flames have officially entered seller territory after offloading star defenseman Rasmus Andersson in a trade with the Vegas Golden Knights, and forward Nazem Kadri is back in the rumor mill.

Kadri, 35, leads the Flames in scoring this season with 34 points (nine goals, 25 assists) in 49 games and remains under contract through 2029 with a $7 million cap hit and a 13-team no-trade clause included in his deal.

While Calgary has not confirmed Kadri is on the market, front offices across the league are asking questions, according to a report from TSN’s Darren Dreger on Tuesday.

“I think that the hockey world is looking at teams like the Calgary Flames and wondering what the next move might be,” Dreger said. “A lot of us are looking at Nazem Kadri among the contenders who could be on the move. What I can tell you is that there are ongoing discussions between Craig Conroy, the general manager and Nazem Kadri’s camp.”

Added Dreger: “Now that doesn’t mean that anything is imminent, but Kadri wants to do what’s best for the Flames, and he also wants to win a Stanley Cup. I would say there’s some developing interest.”

Dreger identified the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche and Los Angeles Kings among the teams “kicking tires” on Kadri. The Dallas Stars were also mentioned as a team showing interest.

“There’s still a lot of work to get done, and there’s no rush as far as Calgary is concerned,” Dreger said.

Calgary Flames center Nazem Kadri.Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports via Imagn Images

(Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports via Imagn Images)

Toronto’s involvement, as reported by Dreger, is notable. That’s because Kadri played nearly 10 full seasons with the Maple Leafs before they traded him to the Avalanche in 2019.

Brad Treliving, now the general manager of the Maple Leafs, was the executive who signed Kadri to his current deal while holding that same position with the Flames.

Kadri is also a logical target for Montreal, as the Habs could add some proven veteran behind Nick Suzuki and could benefit from Kadri’s playoff experience and leadership.

The Flames are 21-23-5 and will host the Pittsburgh Penguins on Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. ET.

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 21, 2026, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Maple Leafs Among Nazem Kadri Suitors After Flames’ Blockbuster Trade

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