As the NHL trade deadline approaches on March 6, the Colorado Avalanche have made a strategic move by acquiring defenseman Brett Kulak from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for Samuel Girard and a future second-round pick. Holding an impressive 37-9-9 record, Colorado’s transaction is clearly a deliberate effort to strengthen its roster rather than a reactionary measure. Kulak, a 32-year-old defenseman with playoff experience, offers the Avalanche added depth on the blue line, a key area for a team eyeing another Stanley Cup run.
Speculations Grow Around Possible Return of Veteran Center Nazem Kadri
Beyond the Kulak trade, speculation is rising about a more impactful move involving veteran center Nazem Kadri. Ranked as the top potential trade candidate by The Fourth Period’s 2026 trade watch, Kadri has emerged as a prime target for Colorado. Reports indicate that Kadri’s representatives have communicated his openness to a trade away from the Calgary Flames. While no deal has been finalized, Calgary appears willing to retain a portion of Kadri’s salary if necessary, potentially easing negotiations.
Interested teams prefer Calgary to retain, which we believe GM Craig Conroy is willing to consider,
The Fourth Period reported.
Kadri’s recent remarks following the Olympic break suggested a degree of uncertainty regarding his future with Calgary. Although he affirmed his commitment to the Flames “for now,” his comments imply that he is mentally preparing for all possibilities.
I’m not a ‘one foot out the door’ kind of guy, wherever I am,
Kadri said.
I exert my full energy and give it 110 per cent, so I try not to let it affect me too much… you know, I’m a Calgary Flames, and my dedication is to here, for now.
He further emphasized the mutual need to explore options that benefit both him and the team.
I think everybody has to explore every avenue as to what’s best for me, and what’s best for the team,
Kadri explained.
Whether that’s here or not, I’m not quite sure, but I enjoy being here at the end of the day.
Kadri’s Contract and Past Success Highlight Colorado’s Interest
Nazem Kadri’s contract, which carries an average annual value of $7 million over seven years, still has three seasons remaining after the current campaign. His 13-team no-trade list grants him significant control over any potential relocation. Importantly, Kadri’s previous stint with Colorado from 2019 to 2022 adds a layer of familiarity and proven success to the trade discussions. During his time with the Avalanche, he developed into a leading second-line center, achieving a career-high 87 points in the 2021-22 season and playing an instrumental role in their Stanley Cup triumph.
Current Performance and Potential Impact on Avalanche’s Playoff Ambitions
This season in Calgary, Kadri leads the Flames with 39 points across 56 games, frequently contributing nearly 19 and a half minutes per night and anchoring the top power-play unit. Nonetheless, Calgary’s struggles with a 23-27-6 record have placed them in a seller’s position as the trade deadline nears. For Colorado, bringing Kadri back would be a move focused not on sentiment but on securing a player with a proven postseason track record who could elevate the team’s chances of clinching another championship.
