The blockbuster trade that seemed inevitable back in November is quickly evaporating. For months, the connection between the Montreal Canadiens and Calgary Flames center Nazem Kadri felt logical. The Habs needed grit and experience down the middle, and the Flames were looking to offload salary.
However, sources indicate a significant shift in Montreal’s strategy. While the Canadiens are not on Kadri’s 13-team no-trade list, the urgency to acquire the 35-year-old pivot has cooled drastically as we approach the Olympic break. Why the sudden change of heart? The answer lies in the internal growth of the Habs’ roster and a savvy move made in December.
The emergence of Oliver Kapanen as a legitimate second-line center has been a revelation for Martin St. Louis. Combine that with the return of Phillip Danault in December—bringing stability and defensive prowess back to the Bell Centre—and the progression of top prospect Michael Hage, and the picture becomes clear: The Canadiens no longer need a $7 million center signed through 2028-29.
The New Priority: A Winger for Suzuki and Caufield
As an analyst watching this rebuild mature, I believe walking away from the Kadri deal is the right move for Montreal. The team has stabilized its center depth. Bringing in Kadri now would block the development of Hage and take touches away from Kapanen, who has earned his ice time.
Instead, the trade chatter has pivoted. The Canadiens are reportedly shifting their focus toward acquiring a high-end scoring winger. The goal is no longer just to “compete”—it’s to amplify the top line. Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield need a permanent running mate who can finish plays and keep up with their pace. While Kadri brings offense, he is a natural center. Forcing him to the wing or bumping a developing center down the lineup to accommodate an aging asset doesn’t fit the Hughes-Gorton long-term blueprint.
What Happens to Kadri?
The Calgary Flames remain in a difficult spot. They were reportedly willing to retain salary to facilitate a deal with Montreal in December, but the financials didn’t align. With the Habs stepping back, the market for Kadri shifts to contenders desperate for center depth.
If Montreal is officially out, keep an eye on the Minnesota Wild, Carolina Hurricanes, and Detroit Red Wings. These teams are currently hunting for difference-makers, particularly if they strike out on the Artemi Panarin sweepstakes. However, don’t count the Habs out entirely—if injuries strike or the Flames’ asking price plummets at the deadline, Kent Hughes could circle back. But for now, the priority in Montreal is clear: find a sniper for the wing, not another center.
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