Despite rumors that he could be moved this offseason and amid the Calgary Flames’ rough season, Nazem Kadri is reportedly not on the trade block. As reported by Darren Dreger from TSN, According to team ownership, the Flames are not considering a move.
The 33-year-old center, who recently celebrated his 1,000th NHL game, remains committed to Calgary, with sources indicating the team does not want to deal him and he has no desire to leave.
Kadri is on a one-year contract worth $7 million for the next four years, which could be considered a bargain as the NHL salary cap rises. There is no doubt that teams would and will make a pitch for him if he becomes available.
And prior to this ownership announcement, with the Flames near the bottom of the standings, many wondered if management would consider moving veteran pieces like Kadri before the trade deadline.
The Flames see Kadri as a central part of what they do
A key factor for Kadri’s staying power is his role as a leader and productive center. If he wants to keep this rebuild/retool going, he can be the face of the change and work hard as the team goes through a difficult transition period. Kadri believes this team will be better and would like to win in a Calgary jersey.
He also has a 13-team no-trade list, which makes a deal a little more complicated than the Flames just taking the best offer and spinning it.
As the season progresses, things may change. For now, Kadri’s combination of experience, skill and leadership makes him an irreplaceable piece that another team will really have to push hard for if the owner changes his mind.
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