During the 2022 offseason, there was significant speculation about Nazem Kadri potentially joining the New York Islanders. At one point, insider Frank Seravalli suggested that a deal between Kadri and the Isles was close.
However, that agreement never happened, and Kadri ended up signing a long-term contract with the Calgary Flames. Fast forward to 2024, and Kadri seems to want out of Calgary.
Insider Darren Dreger reports that Kadri is looking to leave the Flames, who are on the brink of a rebuild. While the Flames haven’t officially announced a rebuild, it seems likely given the current situation. If Calgary does decide to shake things up, Kadri could be on the move.
This situation opens a potential opportunity for the New York Islanders. If the Flames are willing to trade Kadri, the Isles could consider acquiring him.
Kadri would slot in as the third-line center behind Brock Nelson. With Nelson potentially becoming a free agent, acquiring Kadri could be a strategic move if Nelson doesn’t re-sign. If Nelson stays, the Isles would have strong center depth.
However, Kadri’s $7 million cap hit presents a challenge. The Islanders would need to find a way to create cap space to accommodate him, which might be feasible with some creative maneuvering.
To acquire Kadri, the Islanders have two potential strategies:
1. They could trade a first-round pick and a roster player like Jean-Gabriel Pageau to clear cap space, while the Flames might include a late-round pick and retain about 25% of Kadri’s salary. This would mean a higher asking price due to the Flames absorbing part of Kadri’s salary.
2. Alternatively, if the Islanders take on Kadri’s full cap hit, the asking price could be lower. This would require the Isles to trade a roster player and include a few mid-round picks, with possibly a late-round pick or two coming back in return.
Lou Lamoriello’s lack of major moves this offseason might suggest he’s waiting for the right opportunity, and the situation with Kadri in Calgary could be just that.
The early part of the season will be telling for the Flames. If Calgary struggles, Kadri could be traded well before the holiday season.
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