Flames reportedly accused of boosting Nazem Kadri’s value amid interest from Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs and Canadiens

The Calgary Flames are facing scrutiny over what some analysts describe as a strategic effort to inflate Nazem Kadri’s trade value. The veteran forward has recently been linked to two of the NHL’s most iconic franchises: Auston Matthews’ Toronto Maple Leafs and the Montreal Canadiens, sparking widespread speculation about a potential move.

Kadri is reportedly willing to waive his no-trade clause, which has opened the door for multiple teams to explore the possibility of acquiring the former Stanley Cup champion. While such flexibility typically fuels legitimate negotiations, a recent report casts doubt on how genuine the interest from Montreal actually is.

NHL analyst Jimmy Murphy suggested that Calgary might be attempting to fabricate a more competitive market for Kadri than actually exists. “With all due respect to Kypper, I’m told the interest is not mutual with the Habs. This sounds like the Flames trying to create the marketplace,” he said, calling into question the validity of the rumored demand.

Is Calgary creating a false market?

While multiple sources reported that both Toronto and Montreal were interested in Kadri, Murphy’s remarks have prompted skepticism about whether the Flames are inflating his value for leverage. If true, it would be a strategic move, especially for a franchise seeking to recoup significant assets in any potential rebuild.

Kadri, for his part, has remained composed amid the speculation. During a recent charity golf tournament, he acknowledged the rumors without confirming anything definitive. “It’s happened quite often over the last couple of months, so it’s a little bit bizarre just scrolling around and seeing your face pop up,” he said. “It is what it is.”

The forward has been a consistent producer for Calgary, tallying 67 points (35G, 32A) last season. However, with a sizable contract that includes a no-movement clause, finding the right fit for a trade won’t be simple — especially with teams already tight against the salary cap.

What Kadri brings — and what it costs

Kadri still brings playoff experience, physical play, and leadership to any locker room. But his $7 million AAV through 2029 is a financial challenge, particularly for contenders like the Maple Leafs, who would need to get creative with their roster construction to fit him in.

In the context of Toronto, the idea of reuniting Kadri with his former club is emotionally compelling but logistically complex. Meanwhile, for Montreal, a younger roster and a longer-term rebuild may make such a move less attractive — as Murphy implied, the fit simply may not be there.

Whether the Flames are actively negotiating or just driving up speculation remains unclear. What is evident is that Kadri is once again at the center of the offseason rumor mill, with his future still uncertain as Calgary explores its options.