Speculation has been swirling around the NHL as the offseason rumor mill kicks into high gear, and one name that continues to surface is Nazem Kadri. The veteran center, known for his gritty style and leadership on the ice, has reportedly become a topic of trade discussions once again, with several teams rumored to be potential landing spots.

As the Calgary Flames look to retool their roster and manage their salary cap, Kadri’s future in Alberta has become increasingly uncertain, prompting insiders and fans alike to wonder where he might end up next.

Recent reports have linked the Montreal Canadiens to Kadri, fueling excitement among Habs supporters eager for a solution at center ice. However, the reality behind the scenes appears more complicated, with conflicting accounts emerging about the level of mutual interest between the player and the organization.

While some insiders suggest Kadri would welcome a move to Montreal, others indicate the Canadiens’ front office may not be as enthusiastic about bringing in the 34-year-old forward. As the rumor mill continues to churn, the situation remains fluid, leaving the hockey world watching closely for the next big development in this ongoing saga.

Photo credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

In recent days, it was reported that the Montreal Canadiens were among the teams Nazem Kadri would accept a trade to.

We know the Canadiens are in search of a second-line center, and adding the 34-year-old veteran would give a serious boost down the middle for the Habs.

However, as reported by DansLesCoulisses, it appears the Canadiens’ interest in Kadri is not mutual.

The Montreal Canadiens are reportedly not interested in Nazem Kadri, even if he would accept a trade there

That’s according to insider Jimmy Murphy, who responded to comments from Nick Kypreos suggesting Montreal could be a potential destination for the Flames center.

“With all due respect to Kypper, I’m told the interest is not mutual with the Habs. This sounds like the Flames trying to create the marketplace.”

– Jimmy Murphy

There are several possible reasons why Kent Hughes likely doesn’t have Nazem Kadri high on his list of priorities-namely, his age and the fact that he’s still under contract for four more seasons with a $7 million annual cap hit.

Reading between the lines, it’s likely Flames GM Craig Conroy is trying to stir up a market for Kadri to assess his value and potentially clear some cap space.

It’s worth noting that the Toronto Maple Leafs were the other team Kypreos named as a destination Kadri would be open to-a return to the organization that drafted him in the first round back in 2009.