The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly taking a serious look at a possible reunion with Nazem Kadri. The former Leaf has found his name back in Toronto’s rumor mill as the team considers moves to reshape its roster this summer.
Nazem Kadri Could Be on Leafs’ Radar Again
Kadri, now 34, is coming off his best offensive season yet. He scored 35 goals and totaled 67 points for the Calgary Flames, appearing in all 82 regular-season games. With Calgary believed to be open to moving veterans, his availability has attracted attention, especially from the team where it all started for him.
Insider Elliotte Friedman recently mentioned on Sportsnet 590 that there’s legitimate mutual interest. “There are serious desires from both sides for a reunion,” he said. That’s added fuel to speculation that Toronto is evaluating Kadri as a fit in their forward group.
“One name to keep an on eye on for Toronto is Nazem Kadri… I’m hearing that there are serious desires from both sides for a reunion.”
– Elliotte Friedman on Sportsnet 590 the Fan
— Benoit For Hart (@BenoitForHart) July 1, 2025
Kadri was drafted seventh overall by the Leafs in 2009 and spent ten years in the city. He put up 357 points during that stretch before being traded to Colorado in 2019. After winning a Stanley Cup with the Avalanche, he signed with Calgary on a $49 million deal that runs through 2029.
Maple Leafs Weighing Nazem Kadri’s Fit Amid Cap Flexibility
Toronto has created breathing room after sending Mitch Marner to Vegas in a sign-and-trade, giving the front office some flexibility to pursue depth at center. Kadri’s cap hit sits at $7 million, which could be manageable depending on how the Leafs spread their remaining salary.
Nick Kypreos previously reported that Toronto is among the teams showing interest in Kadri. With Auston Matthews and John Tavares locked in, the Leafs are in the market for a reliable third-line center who can play with an edge and contribute at both ends.
Kadri brings that. He’s never shied away from contact, his career hit total has surpassed 1,100, and he remains one of the more battle-tested two-way players available. His familiarity with the Toronto market could also help smooth any transition, both on and off the ice.
While fans are largely on board with the idea, there are still complications. Kadri’s contract includes a no-movement clause, meaning he’d need to approve any deal. That said, reports suggest he would consider a trade to a playoff contender. Toronto fits that description.
Calgary, for its part, appears ready to make changes. General Manager Craig Conroy is reportedly fielding calls not just on Kadri, but on other veterans as well, including defenseman Rasmus Andersson. If the Flames commit to a youth movement, clearing contracts like Kadri’s would be part of that process.
Other teams have entered the conversation, too. The Bruins, Jets, Hurricanes, and even Kadri’s former team in Colorado are believed to be monitoring the situation. But Toronto has the clearest connection and perhaps the strongest motive.
A reunion wouldn’t just check a box emotionally. It might solve a need the Maple Leafs have had for years: dependable depth with postseason grit. Whether the deal materializes remains to be seen, but the door is clearly open
