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Nazem Kadri remains an interesting target for the Maple Leafs following new report


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Austin Kelly
January 9, 2026  (11:24)
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Dec 31, 2025; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames center Nazem Kadri (91) against the Philadelphia Flyers during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome
Photo credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

Nazem Kadri could soon be on the move as a report indicates that he's willing to listen on a potential trade.

The future of Nazem Kadri as a Calgary Flame could soon come to an end despite the Flames goal to keep him as a report suggests Kadri could be swayed by an offer he can't refuse.
Kadri has been linked to a potential exit from a Flames team that has struggled throughout the season, but reports have also indicated that Calgary's goal is to keep Kadri and build around their current roster while being able to rebuild at the same time.

Nazem Kadri in trade talks again he's open to move to contender

New reporting suggests that Kadri could indeed be on the move as Darren Dreger reports that Kadri could be willing to be dealt, as long as it's to a top contending team in the league.
The report from Dreger says that Kadri is happy in Calgary as a member of the Flames, but is willing to listen to offers that provide him the chance at a potential Stanley Cup.
Kadri is signed until 2029, and has a modified no-trade clause, allowing for him the ability to choose his next team but allow him to evaluate some of his options.

Why the Toronto Maple Leafs may not be the destination for Kadri

Despite having spent a decade in Toronto since he was drafted seventh overall by the Leafs in 2009, there's no guarantee they're the destination for Kadri, and their season so far may be holding them back.
Dreger's report indicates that Kadri wants to go to a 'top contender' and teams fighting for a spot on the borderline may not be in consideration whether in the playoff picture or not.
The Leafs are currently just a point out of the final wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, a quick climb upwards from being in last place only a few weeks back, but it may not be enough for Kadri.
The indication appears to be that Kadri's goal is to join a team near the top of the standings, a team highly likely to make the postseason, and not risk joining a team still appearing to be on shaky ground.
But the longer Kadri sits on the trade market, it could benefit the Leafs as their recent positive boost could soon propel them to contender status, and make them a more attractive trade destination for a top player such as Kadri.
The 35-year-old Kadri has eight goals and 32 points in 44 games this season for Calgary, seventh in the Pacific Division with an 18-22-4 record this season.
If the Toronto Maple Leafs get the chance for patience with Nazem Kadri, it could buy them time to become the contenders that make them a viable spot for him as a trade option.
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Nazem Kadri remains an interesting target for the Maple Leafs following new report

Should the Leafs target Nazem Kadri as their #1 trade option?

Yes52238.6 %
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