The Calgary Flames have got off to a horrendous start. After their first 12 games, they have a record of two wins, eight regulation losses and two losses in extra time for six points. They are the worst team in the National Hockey League. Calgary also has a goals for and against of -16, which is tied with the St. Louis Blues for the worst goals for and against ratio in the NHL. Remember, the Flames were tied with the Blues for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference last season with 96 points. However, the Blues got into the playoffs because they had 32 regulation wins, and the Flames had 31 regulation wins.
Seven points back of a playoff spot already
Calgary’s six points are seven fewer points than the Edmonton Oilers, who have the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference with 13 points. However, there just does not seem to be much spark or energy with the Flames at the moment. Their first win of the season came on October 8 in a stunning 4-3 shootout victory over the Oilers. Their second win came this past Sunday in a dominant 5-1 win over the New York Rangers.
Who is most likely to be dealt?
There is no doubt Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson will be traded. It is just a matter of time. However, another player on the Flames is likely to be on the move too. That is forward Nazem Kadri of London, Ontario. At 35 years of age, expect the Flames trade Kadri to a playoff contender, as it is unlikely he would remain with a franchise currently rebuilding.
In the summer we discussed two franchises that Kadri could be playing for. One is the Toronto Maple Leafs, who he played for 10 seasons from 2009 to 2019. The other are the Montreal Canadiens, who was Kadri’s favourite team growing up.
According to Rupert McDonald of The Hockey Writers, three other possibilities are the Carolina Hurricanes, Colorado Avalanche and Vancouver Canucks. Kadri has also played for the Avalanche in the past. Two other franchises that could show interest are the Winnipeg Jets and Florida Panthers. Florida may be looking for some grit with Matthew Tkachuk out long term.
Kadri in 2025-26
So far this season, Kadri has three goals and six assists for nine points. He is a -7 with eight penalty minutes, four power-play points, 36 shots on goal, 62 faceoff wins, four blocked shots, nine hits, four takeaways, and 16 giveaways.
