Flames' Nazem Kadri speaks out on speculation around his future amid changes to his no-trade clause

The Calgary Flames have had a poor start to the 2025-26 NHL season, and forward Nazem Kadri has all the media attention. The Flames sit last in the Pacific Division with a 2-7-1 record, struggling to find consistency on both ends of the ice. Trade rumors linking Kadri to Toronto started in the summer, but now several teams are in the mix. It has grown stronger after his contract entered a 13-team no-trade list this season.

In a recent interview with Sportsnet published on Monday, Kadri said he is not bothered by the speculation.

"For me, it's really nothing that draws my attention," Kadri said, mentioning that he has seen more difficulties in the past. "Obviously, there's going to be some questions about it. I'm okay to answer them, but at the end of the day, I'm focused on winning hockey games."

Kadri has been one of Calgary’s better players so far. He scored a goal and an assist in Sunday’s 5-1 win over the New York Rangers. It was his first multi-point game of the season. Kadri now has seven points in ten games and continues to center the top line.

Still, a win is not going to change Calgary's circumstances. They are placed last in the league this season. So, Kadri's future is also uncertain, and when asked about it, Kadri simply said,

"I'm focused on winning hockey. That’s all I care about.”

Last season, Nazem Kadri scored 35 goals and had 67 points. So, teams are definitely going to inquire about him for a top-six role.

Meanwhile, despite Kadri's effort, the Flames have struggled on both ends. They are averaging two goals per game and allowing 3.5. Their power play is at 12.2%, and penalty kill also needs to improve as they look to turn their season around.

Elliotte Friedman's take on Nazem Kadri rumors

On Saturday, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman talked about Nazem Kadri on Hockey Night in Canada. He said the Calgary Flames will not trade Kadri before his 1,000th NHL game.

"There is zero chance (for his trade). He is not going anywhere before he plays the game, Number 1000," Friedman said. ".... nothing will happen before that 1,000th game is played soon."

So far, Nazem Kadri has played 995 games, so is it a countdown? Friedman also mentioned his 13-team no-trade list and said that many teams are checking if they are on that list. So, for now, the trade talks are unlikely to end.