Nazem Kadri and Maple Leafs reunion is a very serious possibility
Photo credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
The Toronto Maple Leafs are rumored to be considering a significant move that could see Nazem Kadri return to their lineup.
Sparking hope among fans for a stronger upcoming season. According to TSN's Craig Button, the Leafs might have a genuine shot at reacquiring Kadri, given the Calgary Flames' current rebuild phase and their willingness to offload significant contracts.
Kadri, who has five seasons left on a contract with a hefty annual cap hit of $7M, initially inked this deal with the Flames under the management of Brad Treliving in the summer of 2022.
Despite the sizeable financial commitment, Button suggested in a discussion with Jay Onrait on SportsCentre that the Leafs could manage the salary cap by choosing not to renew contracts for Tyler Bertuzzi and Max Domi. This adjustment would financially accommodate Kadri, who is seen as a valuable asset for enhancing the Leafs' second-line center position.
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"I'm not doing anything with those 2 players until I understand what's available with respect to Nazem Kadri... He's exactly what the Toronto Maple Leafs need as a 2nd line center. Exactly what they need, and he's better than Domi and he's better than Bertuzzi and so if you can do that, then you do that first and foremost... I would be pressing Craig Conroy at every single turn. If I don't get [Kadri], I'm putting my efforts into Max Domi."
Button also noted the possibility of retaining Domi alongside Kadri if the financials could be aligned favorably. This strategy would require the Flames to retain a portion of Kadri's salary and for Domi to agree to a more favorable contract. This balance is crucial as the Leafs aim to allocate the bulk of their $19.7M cap space to bolstering their defense, which remains their top priority.
Kadri's potential return is not just about numbers; his performance has been solid, with 29 goals and 75 points last season for the Flames, following a 24-goal season the year before. His ability to contribute significantly to the scoreboard and maintain an aggressive presence on the ice could fill a critical gap for the Leafs, especially if Bertuzzi departs.
Could the Leafs benefit from Kadri's return at a 50% salary retention, reducing his cap hit to $3.5M? This strategic move could indeed be a game-changer for the team. Engage with us in the poll below and share your thoughts!
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| POLL |
28 JUIN | 200 ANSWERS Nazem Kadri and Maple Leafs reunion is a very serious possibility If Calgary retained 50% of Kadri's current deal, would you welcome him back to Toronto? |
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