Sipu Jha
The Nazem Kadri trade speculation has intensified as the deadline approaches, with Montreal emerging as a potential landing spot for the veteran center. The connection makes sense on paper as the Canadiens search for depth down the middle to support their young core.What wasn’t clear until recently was whether Kadri would even want to play in Montreal. The 34-year-old holds a modified no-trade clause that includes 13 teams, giving him significant control over any potential move. And one prominent NHL insider recently shed light on Kadri’s preferences.
NHL Insider Chris Johnston Reports Nazem Kadri Would Favor Montreal
The Athletic’s Chris Johnston recently made trade deadline predictions alongside colleague James Mirtle, naming the Canadiens as Kadri’s most likely destination. The reporting included a crucial detail that should interest Montreal management.“The fact he would be in favor of a move to the Habs, according to league sources, should bring a measure of comfort,” Johnston wrote. “Kadri has a 13-team no-trade list, and Montreal isn’t on it.” The willingness to waive his clause for Montreal removes one potential roadblock, but significant hurdles remain. Kadri carries a $7 million cap hit through the 2028-29 season, meaning any acquiring team inherits three more years after this one. He’ll turn 38 in the final year of that deal. Meanwhile, Frank Seravalli previously reported the Canadiens aren’t thrilled about the term, preferring a contract with only one or two years remaining. That suggests Kadri might be a backup option if Montreal strikes out on other centers. The bigger problem is Montreal’s cap situation. The Canadiens project to have just $1.49 million in space at the March 6 deadline, making it impossible to absorb Kadri’s contract without moving salary out first.Patrik Laine’s $8.7 million cap hit represents the most obvious candidate to clear space, but finding a willing trade partner for that contract presents its own challenges. The Canadiens would need to solve that puzzle before they could seriously pursue Kadri.Calgary has already traded Rasmus Andersson and appears open to moving veterans as they slide toward the bottom of the standings. With the Olympic roster freeze lifting February 22, teams have two weeks to finalize deals before the deadline hits.Kadri will be bringing some much-needed veteran experience to the Canadiens roster. For a side that remains among the youngest in the league, the addition of someone who knows what it takes to win a Stanley Cup counts for a lot. The fans on both sides keep a close watch on the happenings.
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