Veteran Nazem Kadri could be on the move again, and the Toronto Maple Leafs might be involved.
According to Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos, the Maple Leafs are among several teams reportedly monitoring the Calgary Flames center as trade discussions gain momentum amid roster shake-up rumors.
Could Nazem Kadri Be Headed Back to the Maple Leafs?
Kadri, now 34, just wrapped up a productive season. He played all 82 games and finished with 35 goals, 32 assists, and 67 points, a reminder that he’s still a reliable contributor on both ends of the ice. With the Flames likely leaning toward a rebuild after another year without playoff hockey, teams are circling.
For Maple Leafs fans, Kadri’s story is a familiar one. Drafted by Toronto back in 2009, he spent 10 seasons wearing the blue and white before being dealt to Colorado. He eventually won a Stanley Cup with the Avalanche in 2022 and later signed a seven-year, $49 million contract with the Calgary Flames.
Nazem Kadri (@43_Kadri) is a #StanleyCup champion! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/TwTnzUfsgT
— NHL (@NHL) June 27, 2022
Toronto’s front office has already been active this offseason. They locked in forward John Tavares with a restructured deal that frees up cap space. Meanwhile, Mitch Marner’s situation remains uncertain, and restricted free agent Matthew Knies has yet to sign a contract.
Given that, Kadri could be an appealing option. He’s battle-tested, plays with bite, and has already proven he can handle the Toronto spotlight. His style would take some pressure off Auston Matthews and allow Tavares to transition into a slightly reduced role.
Nick Kypreos: Teams have been inquiring about Flames’ Nazem Kadri; Toronto would be one of them – SN 960
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) June 29, 2025
However, the situation is far from straightforward. Kadri’s contract runs through 2029 with a $7 million cap hit and includes a no-movement clause, meaning he’d need to approve any trade. But sources suggest he’s open to the idea of playing for a contender again, and Toronto fits that bill.
Maple Leafs Weigh Their Options Amid Offseason Changes
In Calgary, general manager Craig Conroy appears ready to make difficult decisions. Alongside Kadri, defenseman Rasmus Andersson is reportedly drawing attention from teams across the league. If the Flames shift focus to a younger core, more veterans may be put on the market.
Several other teams have also shown interest in Kadri, including the Boston Bruins, Carolina Hurricanes, Winnipeg Jets, and his former team, the Colorado Avalanche. Despite this, Toronto’s salary cap flexibility, familiarity with Kadri, and clear need at center could give the Maple Leafs an advantage.
Reuniting with Kadri wouldn’t just be sentimental, it could be smart. He brings playoff grit and leadership that the Maple Leafs have often lacked when it matters most. If the Flames are ready to deal and Kadri’s on board, this might just be the move that helps push Toronto over the hump.
