How a “What If” Maple Leafs Trade Made Nazem Kadri Grow Up

I recall seeing Nazem Kadri play in Toronto as if it happened yesterday. The young player could electrify a room. He was lively, passionate, and perhaps more than a bit uncontrolled at times. He’d defend his teammates at all costs. And, could he skate – as often into trouble as out of it.

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Those two playoff suspensions against the Boston Bruins sealed the deal on his tenure with the Maple Leafs. Indeed, they made an impression on both fans and the Maple Leafs as an organization. As someone covering Toronto back then, I could see why management eventually decided the risk outweighed the reward.

When Kadri Moved to Colorado, Something Positive Happened

When he finally gave in and was traded to the Colorado Avalanche in 2019, I followed his play because I had become a homer. I couldn’t stop caring about Maple Leafs players – no matter where they landed. The big question I had was whether Kadri could grow into a valuable role. And could he do it outside of the Toronto spotlight?

Did he ever. He grew up in Colorado and even scored 28 goals and added 59 assists (for 87 points) in a single season. In Toronto, few would have thought he could put up that level of production. He also helped the Avalanche win a Stanley Cup and even scored the penultimate game-winning goal with a broken thumb. That game put his team in a position to win it all.

Watching him in Colorado, I saw that he hadn’t lost any of his fire. But he did learn a thing or two about timing and control. It could have been the players around him who reigned him in. But whatever happened, he started to grow into an on-ice leader. His stats improved, but his leadership exploded. He became the kind of player who tilted the game and made his whole team better.

In Calgary, Kadri Has Become the Heart of the Flames

Now observing him in Calgary, the viewpoint shifts. The Flames haven’t reached the level of the Avalanche and probably won’t in Kadri’s tenure. Still, he offers that exact intensity combined with a measure of wisdom. He serves as a grounding presence, showing his teammates how to compete and to lead through their actions on the ice.

I’ve followed him over the seasons. He’s had some stormy nights and some good ones. But I can tell you one thing. He would not have become the player he is today if he hadn’t left Toronto. I believe the pressure there might have stunted him. The move forced him to grow, and he’s done it beautifully.

Trades Have a Way of Looking Better When You’re Looking Back

Trades have a way about them. They shut some doors and unlock others, and sometimes a player must leave the team he loves most to reach his true potential. Kadri remains passionate about hockey. He continues to compete. He keeps driving himself.

Wherever he goes, he lifts his teammates. I know for a fact that Toronto fans are wondering what might have been if Kadri were still with the Blue and White.

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