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Nazem Kadri was welcomed back to the Colorado Avalanche with a standing ovation on March 8, two days after being acquired from the Calgary Flames prior to the NHL Trade Deadline. The 35-year-old forward has provided energy and production for the Avalanche, who have clinched a playoff berth and lead the NHL with 106 points entering their game against the Flames on Monday.

Why it matters

Kadri’s return to the Avalanche, where he helped the team win the Stanley Cup in 2022, gives them additional depth and experience at the center position as they push for another championship. His familiarity with the team and system should help him integrate quickly and provide a boost to the Avalanche’s offense.

The details

Kadri has seven points (two goals, five assists) in 11 games since being traded back to the Avalanche. He had 41 points (12 goals, 29 assists) in 61 games for the Flames this season before the March 6 trade. Avalanche forward Brock Nelson said Kadri’s addition “injects a little bit of energy” and that his familiarity with the team and system makes the transition easier.

Kadri was acquired by the Avalanche on March 6, 2026.Kadri received a standing ovation from Avalanche fans on March 8, 2026, two days after being traded.

The players

Nazem Kadri

A 35-year-old forward who was traded from the Calgary Flames to the Colorado Avalanche on March 6, 2026. Kadri previously helped the Avalanche win the Stanley Cup in 2022.

Brock Nelson

A forward for the Colorado Avalanche who commented on the impact of Kadri’s return to the team.

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What they’re saying

“Very special. The fan base has been nothing but great to me and been very supportive of my family and I, so try to give them everything I can on a nightly basis.”

— Nazem Kadri

“I think it just injects a little bit of energy. Also, for ‘Naz’ it’s a little different just being familiar with a lot of the guys in here and having won. He knows the system, the staff, so I’m sure it’s a little bit easier.”

— Brock Nelson, Avalanche forward

What’s next

The Avalanche will face the Flames at Ball Arena on Monday, March 30, 2026, in a matchup that will feature Kadri’s return to play against his former team.

The takeaway

Nazem Kadri’s return to the Colorado Avalanche has provided an immediate boost to the team’s offense and energy as they push for another Stanley Cup championship. His familiarity with the team and system should help him integrate quickly and make the Avalanche an even more formidable opponent in the playoffs.