Devils Named Fit for Nazem Kadri in Potential Trade

As we become deeper entrenched into the dog days of summer, the chalk, and talk NHL trade scenario’s become more frequent. However, the latest link stuck out to me. No one is confirming anything, it’s more of a speculative idea. However, there’s one outlet who believes that the New Jersey Devils are a fit for Nazem Kadri in a potential trade.

READ MORE: Disgruntled CBJ Winger a Perfect Target; Devils Trade Could Fill Need

Ryan Dixon of Sportsnet laid out a handful of teams who he believes Kadri would fit in well with.

Of the five, New Jersey made the cut. Also on the list are the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Carolina Hurricanes, and Colorado Avalanche.

The idea here is quite simple. The Devils are in need of a third-line center. Kadri, who serves as a top-six player for the Calgary Flames, certainly wouldn’t usurp Jack Hughes or Nico Hischier’s roles. Yet, adding Kadri would give the Devils the depth they’ve been seeking.

From the Calgary perspective, trading Kadri does make sense. He’s on the wrong side of 35 years old, and they’re a team who is rebuilding on the fly and could certainly recoup assets for the veteran center.

We’ll contemplate whether it makes sense for the Devils to make such a move later. However, in terms of what Kadri brings to the table, it’s certainly something the Devils need. A bit of snarl in the forward group, and the ability to score goals—he netted 35 last season.

As it stands, Dawson Mercer is New Jersey’s best option at 3C. After collecting 67 points last season, Kadri is certainly a stronger option as opposed to Mercer, who scored 20 goals and 36 points while mostly serving as a top-six winger.

A potential Devils trade with the Flames certainly has base. It wouldn’t be the first time Flames GM Craig Conroy deals with Devils GM, Tom Fitzgerald, after the two connected on a Jacob Markstrom deal last summer.

The Devils still have a Luke Hughes contract to get sorted. Add the fact that Kadri makes $7 million per season, the Devils would likely need to make even more room for it to happen.

If it gained any traction, however, Kadri has full say in his future as the rightful owner full no-move clause until July 1st, 2026. However, the likelihood of him turning down a chance to play in the postseason with New Jersey, as opposed to Calgary who missed the playoffs last season, is unlikely.

Again, we’ll evaluate later on whether a trade for Kadri makes sense for the Devils to make. But, at first glance, he’d certainly be a big upgrade down the middle in New Jersey.

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