Flames’ Nazem Kadri reportedly willing to make major move to join Canadiens or reunite with Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs

Nazem Kadri has once again found himself at the center of NHL trade speculation. The 33-year-old center, currently with the Calgary Flames, is under contract through 2029 with a full no-move clause. But as the offseason progresses, whispers about a possible return to one of his former Eastern Conference homes have grown louder.

According to Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos, Kadri has reportedly indicated a willingness to waive his no-move clause — but only for two specific destinations: the Montreal Canadiens and the Toronto Maple Leafs, the latter being the franchise where he spent the first decade of his NHL career. While no trade is imminent, the report has fueled speculation across Canadian markets about potential interest and feasibility.

Both teams are in very different stages of contention. The Maple Leafs are built around Auston Matthews and a core that continues to chase playoff success, while the Canadiens are developing a younger group and could benefit from Kadri’s veteran presence and championship pedigree. Kadri, who won the Stanley Cup with Colorado in 2022, remains a productive and gritty two-way player that many front offices would welcome — if the conditions and cap hit align.

Would Kadri fit better in Toronto or Montreal?

If Kadri returns to Toronto, it would mark a dramatic reunion with a franchise that drafted him and helped shape his identity as a tenacious, versatile forward. His exit in 2019 was viewed as a necessary move to improve team defense, but his skill set and edge have been missed in recent playoff battles. In Montreal, his leadership could complement their emerging stars and accelerate the rebuild process.

Of course, any potential move will depend not only on Kadri’s preferences but also on the willingness of the Flames’ front office to absorb or maneuver around his $7 million AAV.

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

What comes next?

For now, the chatter remains speculative, but Kadri’s openness to waiving his no-move clause — even if limited — signals a shift in his outlook. As the offseason unfolds and teams reassess their needs, it would not be surprising to see serious conversations take place.