Nazem Kadri: A Toronto Homecoming in the Cards?


It’s a question that’s been whispered in Leafs Nation ever since Nazem Kadri left in a blockbuster trade to Colorado in 2019: could Toronto ever bring him back? Well According to a Nov 22 report from former NHL general manager and head coach Doug MacLean, who spoke on the Real Kyper and Bourne show, current Calgary Flames forward Nazem Kadri is on the Leafs’ radar…. With Kadri now playing for the Calgary Flames under a hefty $7 million annual cap hit and a no-movement clause (NMC), it’s not exactly a slam dunk. But hey, let’s have some fun and imagine what a Kadri-to-Toronto trade might look like.

Why Kadri Makes Sense for the Leafs

Toronto has had a soft spot for Kadri since he was drafted 7th overall in 2009. Known for his gritty, two-way game, Kadri blossomed into a fan favorite, especially for his ability to stir the pot while putting up respectable offensive numbers. After his departure, Kadri proved his worth in Colorado, helping the Avalanche win a Stanley Cup in 2022.

So, why bring him back now?

1. Center Depth and Versatility

Kadri could potentially slot in as the third line center behind Auston Matthews and John Tavares, or could change Johnny T for a shot at the second line center position or he could even play wing when needed like back in Jrs. His playoff experience and knack for clutch performances would give Toronto’s lineup a much needed edge in high stakes games.

2. Unfinished Business

Kadri’s tenure in Toronto ended on a sour note, with two consecutive playoff suspensions tarnishing his legacy. A return could be the redemption arc Leafs fans didn’t know they needed.

3. The Kadri Effect

Kadri is more than just a player he’s a spark plug, the kind of player who can rally a team and a fanbase. Picture him crashing the net in a tense playoff game, igniting the Scotiabank Arena crowd with his tenacity. It’s not just about stats, it’s about swagger. Kadri’s energy and edge could galvanize a Leafs team looking for that extra something to push them over the hump.

What Would It Take to Get Kadri?

Here’s where it gets tricky. Calgary would need to be in a retooling mindset, willing to part with a player they signed long-term just last year. Toronto would need to clear cap space and offer a package enticing enough to convince the Flames to retain salary.

Potential Trade Proposal:

• To Toronto: Nazem Kadri (50% salary retained by Calgary, reducing his cap hit to $3.5M).

• To Calgary: Calle Järnkrok or David Kämpf (cap dump), Nick Robertson (high potential project), and a 2025 first-round pick or potentially a blue chip prospect … I won’t mention any names but you know the names 

On paper, it’s a deal that balances cap considerations and value. Toronto gets Kadri at a manageable cap hit, while Calgary gains future assets and clears long-term salary.

Pros and Cons of a Kadri Homecoming

Pros:

• Playoff Pedigree: Kadri’s Stanley Cup run in 2022 showcased his ability to perform under pressure.

• Versatility: He can contribute offensively, kill penalties, and annoy opposing stars a skill Toronto often lacks.

• Fan Connection: Kadri returning to Toronto would be a heartwarming reunion, instantly boosting morale for fans and players alike.

• The Kadri Effect: His fiery, relentless style of play would add a spark to Toronto’s lineup and provide the kind of edge they’ve lacked in key playoff moments.

Cons:

• Cap Crunch: Even with retention, Toronto’s cap gymnastics would be Olympic level. They’d need to shed other contracts to make room.

• Long-Term Risk: 

Kadri is under contract until 2028-29. Even at a reduced cap hit, will his production hold up as he approaches his mid-30s?

• Fit in the Lineup: With Matthews and Tavares already anchoring the center position, would Kadri’s talents be fully utilized?

The Big Hurdle: Kadri’s No-Movement Clause

Let’s not forget: Kadri holds all the cards here. His no-movement clause means he’d need to agree to any trade. While the idea of returning to Toronto might be appealing, Kadri has to consider whether he wants to leave Calgary, where he’s building his legacy post Colorado.

The Dream Scenario: Kadri’s Redemption Arc

Imagine this: It’s Game 7. The Leafs are on the brink of breaking their first-round curse. Matthews and Marner are locked down by the opposition, and the game is tied late in the third. Enter Kadri.

He snags the puck in the neutral zone, barrels past two defenders, and rips a shot bar down to send the Leafs to the second round. The crowd loses its collective mind. Kadri raises his arms, his redemption arc complete.

Toronto finally has a playoff hero and it’s the guy who never stopped believing he could be one.

Verdict: Fun to Dream, Tough to Execute

A Kadri homecoming is the kind of move that Leafs fans love to fantasize about. It’s nostalgic, it’s dramatic, and it’s the sort of thing that would light up hockey Twitter for weeks…it’s something special!

But the reality is far murkier. Between Toronto’s cap situation, Calgary’s unlikely willingness to retain salary for so long, and the mess left behind by Brad Treliving in Calgary (hello, Jonathan Huberdeau’s contract), it’s a tough trade to pull off. Not to mention Kadri himself would need to greenlight the deal.

Still, stranger things have happened in the NHL. If the stars align and the Leafs decide to go all-m in on a gritty, battle-tested playoff warrior, maybe just maybe Nazem Kadri could don the blue and white once more.

Would it work? Maybe. Would it be fun? Absolutely.

What do you think, Leafs fans? Would you welcome Kadri back?



 By: Kyle MacGillivary

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