Could Flames 1000-Game Center Solve the Canadiens’ 2C Problem?

The Montreal Canadiens are one of the NHL’s most exciting, young, fast, and unexpectedly competitive teams this season. Fans and analysts seemed to know they’d take a step, but 6-2-2 in their last 10 games and clearly showing they’re here to stay, the Canadiens are making noise this season. That will lead the team to try to fill holes if they feel they are a serious contender.

If there’s one gap still glaring in their lineup, it’s the lack of a true second-line center behind Nick Suzuki.

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Even though the Calgary Flames are sinking fast, ownership has said they won’t be trading Nazem Kadri. Does anyone really believe they won’t consider moving the veteran forward if the right offer comes along? While Kadri reportedly loves Calgary, previous reports also noted that he would be open to moving to Montreal to join an already lethal top six.

Kadri, 35, continues to produce despite Calgary’s struggles, notching 11 points in 16 games while playing heavy minutes. He can play physically while bringing evident skill. He’s matured over the course of his 1000 NHL games to the point he’s a true leader, and his playoff experience and previous Stanley Cup win would fit perfectly on a Canadiens team learning how to become more than a team that’s starting to win in the regular season.

Insiders like David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period have already hinted that Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton are “monitoring the market for experienced centers.” Kadri checks every box — he’s a proven winner, left-handed, and capable of easing Suzuki’s workload in key matchups.

What Would the Canadiens Have to Give Up to Get Kadri?

The question is price. Calgary needs young assets, and Montreal has plenty — from Owen Beck to Oliver Kapanen. We mentioned in a recent post that the future of Kaiden Guhle is even something the Canadiens might look at more closely. Moving Guhle and his $5.5 million cap hit takes care of many of the questions that might come up with Kadri’s $7 million cap hit.

The only downside is that Kadri is locked in through 2029; thus, the Canadiens would need a longer-term view of his value.

For a club with Stanley Cup aspirations, the time to act might be sooner rather than later. It becomes a question of waiting for the Flames to face the reality of their situation. As much as ownership is sticking with their guy, when they understand that the more prudent move might be to get what they can for Kadri, Montreal should be ready to make an offer.

Next: Trade Talk: Why Ryan O’Reilly Makes Sense for the Canadiens