{"id":427216,"date":"2026-01-25T10:57:25","date_gmt":"2026-01-25T10:57:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nhl\/427216\/"},"modified":"2026-01-25T10:57:25","modified_gmt":"2026-01-25T10:57:25","slug":"canadiens-explored-nazem-kadri-and-blake-coleman-trades-before-plans-shifted","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nhl\/427216\/","title":{"rendered":"Canadiens explored Nazem Kadri and Blake Coleman trades before plans shifted"},"content":{"rendered":"


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\n\t\t\t\t\t \"Apr <\/p>\n

Photo credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Kent Hughes did in fact pick up the phone to talk with the Calgary Flames regarding Nazem Kadri and Blake Coleman.<\/p>\n

Insider Pierre LeBrun has just confirmed this information on TSN 690.<\/p>\n

The Canadiens explored both of these options at different points this season to plug holes in the lineup.<\/p>\n

Pierre LeBrun: Regarding the rumours surrounding Coleman and Kadri:<\/p>\n

“The Habs have talked to Calgary I believe about both players at different times of the season; I think the urgency to trade for a center has lessened because of Oliver Kapanen.”<\/p>\n

Kent Hughes discussed Blake Coleman and Nazem Kadri with the Calgary Flames<\/p>\n

We’re talking about serious reinforcements for the top six and a massive injection of leadership into the locker room.<\/p>\n

Nazem Kadri would not be a simple rental, but a culture change for the young forwards.<\/p>\n

The 35-year-old veteran was drafted 7th overall by Toronto in 2009, and he knows what it takes to win.<\/p>\n

However, he carries a heavy $7 million contract that impacts the cap through 2029.<\/p>\n

But Kent Hughes decided to pump the brakes for one very specific reason, one that will please fans.<\/p>\n

Oliver Kapanen forces the hand of the Montreal Canadiens’ management<\/p>\n

This is exactly the type of internal development fans have been waiting for for years, instead of overpaying on the market.<\/p>\n

Young Kapanen completely changes the picture down the middle and provides unexpected stability.<\/p>\n

Selected in the second round (64th overall) in 2021, the Finn is finally taking the spot that belongs to him.<\/p>\n

Pierre LeBrun specifically mentions that his emergence has reduced the urgency to act for a center.<\/p>\n

Blake Coleman remains an intriguing option to add size and grit for the playoffs.<\/p>\n

The former third-round pick (75th overall) of the Devils in 2011 is the type of warrior Martin St-Louis loves.<\/p>\n

But for now, the inspired play of the young players allows Hughes to keep his assets.<\/p>\n

The plan appears to have changed for the better thanks to the organization’s patience.<\/p>\n

Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics<\/p>\n

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