Now in his 17th NHL season, Nazem Kadri has a well-earned reputation as a point-producing center whose agitating style can drive opponents to distraction. His antics earned him six suspensions earlier in his career. Since 2021, he has reined in his temper, becoming a more effective performer.
The change in his temperament was likely due to his solid performance in helping the Colorado Avalanche win the Stanley Cup in 2022. Since joining the Flames as a free agent later that year, he’s become one of their top offensive stars and a reliable veteran leader.
Kadri’s production has remained consistent through most of his career. He’s tallied 20-or-more goals seven times in his career, including 35 last season. He also reached or exceeded 40 points in 10 seasons, which included his 67 points in 2024-25.
At 35, he is at a point in his career where age and the wear and tear of a long NHL career could catch up with him. So far, he’s avoided that decline, leading the struggling Flames with 11 points in 15 games, putting him on pace for another 20-goal, 60-point campaign.
Teams in the market for second-line center depth will be interested in Kadri’s scoring, grit, and playoff experience. While there is cost-certainty with his contract, his age could make some teams wary about taking on those remaining three years.
The Flames could seek a first-round pick and either a top prospect or a young NHL player as their asking price for Kadri. Interested teams could counter with a second-rounder and a prospect. Calgary’s chances of getting the return it wants depend on how many teams bid for his services.