Not Flames’ Nazem Kadri First Rodeo with Trade Rumours

If you’re a hockey fan, you’ve heard it a hundred times by now: Nazem Kadri’s name keeps popping up in trade rumours. And it’s not just whispers. When a veteran centre of his experience hits the market, every contender needs at least a line on the big names list.

Kadri Is an Interesting Case in Point Because of His History

What makes Kadri interesting and a bit different from what you think most players would feel is how he actually talks about it.

On The FAN Hockey Show, he didn’t dodge the question. Kadri basically said the talk doesn’t shake him. He’s not “one foot out the door.” Nor is he sitting around wondering if the Flames have already decided he’s gone. He’s focused on right now, on competing, on giving 110 per cent every shift — and that attitude tells you a lot about the kind of pro he is.

And that’s the first reason he’s different: Kadri doesn’t let rumour mill pressure him. Most players would admit, privately at least, that hearing your name thrown around in trades — especially when your team is struggling — can get under your skin. You wonder if management still sees you as part of the plan, or if you’re just a chip to be moved. Kadri acknowledges the chatter, but he doesn’t let it mess with his daily focus.

This Isn’t Kadri’s First Rodeo with a No-Move Clause

Second, Kadri’s been through this before. He’s not new to big-league travel, expectations, pressure, and change. He’s been in contract limbo with the Toronto Maple Leafs before, and he eventually agreed to waive his no-move clause. That choice turned out to be the best for him.

That choice led to a Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche and a solid new contract with the Flames. Those experiences give him a perspective most guys never get.

Third, his situation is unique contract-wise. He used to have a full no-movement clause, but that protection isn’t full anymore. He now has a 13-team no-trade list. That means he still controls where he could go and can veto moves to teams on that list. That changes the whole dynamic. He’s not powerless in this process, and that helps explain why he’s relaxed about the rumours rather than flustered by them.

Is Kadri Bothered His Name Is in the Trade Rumours Mix?

So is he conflicted about hearing his name? Maybe a little; anyone would be. On one hand, it’s flattering when contenders are interested. On the other hand, it reminds you how little control players sometimes have.

But Kadri’s attitude says something bigger. He’s a professional, which means he’s all in on today’s game, not today’s headlines. His history of success when he was traded makes him one of the more interesting veterans to watch as the deadline approaches.

Related: The Truth About the Flames’ Goaltending