Nathan MacKinnon expressed optimism about the Colorado Avalanche’s chances in the playoffs following the return of Nazem Kadri. The team made a strategic move at the NHL trade deadline to bring Kadri back, reinforcing their roster for a strong postseason run.
Reuniting Nazem Kadri with the Avalanche for a Playoff Push
On March 6, the Colorado Avalanche completed a trade with the Calgary Flames to reacquire veteran center Nazem Kadri. Kadri originally played with Colorado before helping the team capture the Stanley Cup in 2022, and his return adds valuable experience to an already deep lineup. Alongside Kadri, Colorado gained a fourth-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft.
In exchange, Calgary received forward Victor Olofsson, rights to unsigned prospect Max Curran, and conditional draft picks: a first-round pick in 2028 and a second-round pick in 2027. The Flames agreed to retain 20% of Kadri’s remaining salary under his seven-year, $49 million contract, which carries a $7 million annual cap hit through the 2028-29 season.
Before the trade, Kadri led Calgary with 41 points in 61 games this season, notching 12 goals and 29 assists. The 35-year-old center also celebrated his 1,000th NHL game earlier this year, underscoring his veteran presence.
MacKinnon Welcomes Kadri Back to Colorado
Nathan MacKinnon shared his enthusiasm after Kadri rejoined the Avalanche during a conversation with NHL reporter Evan Rawal. MacKinnon highlighted the team’s need for Kadri’s game-changing scoring ability, especially considering the challenges faced in last year’s playoffs.
Pumped to have Naz back on our team,
MacKinnon said.
It’s exciting for the fans, this organization, all of us in this room. We needed a little bit, I think, a little bit more game-breaking scoring punch we might have missed last year in the playoffs … once again, our management is going all-in. Obviously, it’s cup or bust for us, but we definitely really appreciate Joe, Cmac, Cogs, Kevin putting us in a good spot.
— Nathan MacKinnon, Avalanche Center
Additional Moves Increase Avalanche Depth Ahead of Playoffs
Alongside the Kadri trade, Colorado remained active at the deadline, acquiring center Nicolas Roy and defensemen Brett Kulak and Nick Blankenburg. These additions bolster the team’s roster depth as the Avalanche maintain one of the NHL’s best season records.
Currently, Colorado holds a 42-10-9 record and leads the league standings. The team recently snapped the Dallas Stars’ 10-game winning streak with a 5-4 shootout victory, demonstrating their competitive edge heading into the postseason.
Kadri’s Role in the Avalanche’s Playoff Aspirations
Kadri’s return brings not only familiarity but also proven playoff experience. Having played three previous seasons with Colorado, he contributed to their Stanley Cup success before signing with Calgary. As the playoffs near, Kadri is expected to provide an additional scoring threat at center behind MacKinnon, potentially addressing gaps the Avalanche encountered in prior playoff runs.
With strong leadership from veterans like Kadri and MacKinnon, along with strategic acquisitions, the Avalanche are positioning themselves as serious contenders for the Stanley Cup this season. Their clear commitment to strengthening the roster reflects a determined push towards postseason success.
Nathan MacKinnon on Nazem Kadri's return…
"Pumped to have Naz back on our team. It's exciting for the fans, this organization, all of us in this room. We needed a little bit, I think, a little bit more game-breaking scoring punch we might have missed last year in the…
— Evan Rawal (@evanrawal) March 7, 2026
