Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs reportedly face setback on potential reunion with Flames center following Mitch Marner’s departure

Auston Matthews‘ Toronto Maple Leafs have been linked to a potential reunion with a key Calgary Flames center this offseason, particularly after Mitch Marner’s departure to the Vegas Golden Knights created new roster opportunities. This prospect generated excitement among fans hoping for a boost to the team’s lineup.

However, NHL insider Darren Dreger recently reported that a trade involving the Flames star Nazem Kadri, is unlikely to happen anytime soon. Speaking on TSN’s First Up, Dreger explained, “Kadri isn’t available. Not saying that he won’t be available—let’s see how things go with the Calgary Flames. A lot can change between now and the trade deadline.”

Despite the current stalemate, the situation remains fluid, with plenty of time for circumstances to evolve as the NHL season progresses.

Contract details and trade restrictions impact potential move

The 34-year-old center is under contract with Calgary through the 2028-29 season, carrying a $7 million cap hit that reflects his value to the team. Additionally, he holds a full no-movement clause, which effectively prevents any trade involving him until the summer of 2026. This contractual detail complicates any immediate plans to move the veteran forward.

Dreger noted that the Flames may revisit trade options once the no-movement clause converts to a more limited no-trade list next summer, potentially opening the door to a deal.

For now, however, Calgary appears committed to retaining the player as a core part of their lineup. Toronto remains interested should the player become available, and Dreger emphasized, “If the player were ever available, Toronto would be interested.”

Player history and future outlook

Nazem Kadri was drafted 7th overall by Toronto in the 2009 NHL Draft and spent ten seasons with the Maple Leafs. During that time, he appeared in 561 games, recording 357 points, including 161 goals. His playoff experience includes 10 points in 19 games with Toronto before winning the Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 2022.

While a reunion between Kadri and Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs is unlikely to materialize immediately, the strong history and ongoing interest keep the possibility alive for future trade discussions. The next trade deadline could prove pivotal in determining the player’s path.