The conversation within the Calgary Flames fan base in recent weeks has been about the future of forward Nazem Kadri. With the team off to a slow start to the season, the idea of trading veterans was a worthwhile discussion.
Kadri’s trade protection also changed this season, as his NMC moved to a 13-team no-trade list. After his 1,000th milestone game, there’s speculation the Flames could shop him. However, one insider doesn’t entirely agree. According to insider Darren Dreger, Flames owner Murray Edwards himself has reportedly shown no interest in trading the 35-year-old, expressing his desire to keep the core of the team intact.
Dreger’s comments are not encouraging for reconstruction advocates
Ownership has been the Flames’ weakest link since Edwards became the team’s majority owner. The idea of trying to make the playoffs every season has resulted in years of mediocrity and little to no playoff success for this team.
That’s why this season is seen as the perfect opportunity to do the right thing: sell older players for future assets. Kadri’s demand in the league is currently significant, with several teams interested in upgrading their center position on the second line. That said, fans’ biggest fear regarding a rebuild was whether ownership would cooperate or not.
That’s why Dreger’s latest comments are credible to Flames fans. Frankly, Edwards is among the worst owners in the league, and it’s easy to see why. If he isn’t willing to build for the future while owning a team without top talent, that’s not encouraging. The 2026 draft is next year and the Flames have the opportunity to draft a franchise-changing player. Still, it’s yet another case of Flames ownership prioritizing short-term profits over a long-term vision.
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