Nazem Kadri’s name has circulated across the NHL rumor mill for quite a while now, but this time, the conversation carries more weight. With the Calgary Flames slipping toward the underside of the standings and already starting to sell veteran pieces, latest reporting has make clear where Kadri actually stands because the 2026 trade deadline approaches.
In keeping with a recent report by The Fourth Pillar, the situation has shifted behind the scenes. Kadri hasn’t forced Calgary’s hand, but he’s not closing the door on a possible change of scenery.
“Within the case of Kadri, multiple sources have confirmed that while he has not formally requested a trade, he and his camp have informed the Flames he’s open to being moved,” the report stated.
That distinction matters. In actual fact, the timing of his stance is sort of notable. The Flames recently dealt defenseman Rasmus Andersson to the Vegas Golden Knights and have since dropped 4 straight games, including two additional time losses. Calgary currently sits thirtieth within the NHL standings with 48 points through 52 games, a pointy downturn from a team that narrowly missed the playoffs last season.
Against that backdrop, moving established veterans like Kadri has change into a sensible option quite than a distant idea. While Kadri has reportedly made his openness clear internally. Again, the emphasis stays that this was not a requirement. As an alternative, it reflects an understanding of where the organization is headed and where Kadri suits in that timeline.
Kadri’s name has long been linked to groups in search of center depth, including the Montreal Canadiens, where speculation around a second-line role has lingered for months. Until now, those talks stalled because neither side appeared motivated to act.
The approaching Olympic break could function a natural checkpoint. With Calgary evaluating its direction and contenders scanning the market, Kadri’s flexibility gives the Flames leverage. Whether a deal materializes before the deadline or becomes a summer storyline, however the message is evident — the door is officially open, and the subsequent move may define Calgary’s reset.