NHL Rumors: Kadri to Canadiens, Wolf Growls, & Canucks Stuck

As the NHL season progresses, several intriguing storylines are developing around potential player movement and team dynamics. Here's a look at the latest buzz surrounding Nazem Kadri, Dustin Wolf, and the Vancouver Canucks.

Kadri to Canadiens?

Rumors are swirling around a potential trade that would send Calgary Flames center Nazem Kadri to the Montreal Canadiens. The Canadiens are reportedly interested in acquiring Kadri to bolster their second line. According to reports, friction between the Calgary Flames and the Toronto Maple Leafs, stemming from Brad Treliving's past dealings with Calgary, may limit Kadri's options, making Montreal a more likely destination.

Former Canadiens player Maxim Lapierre has touted Kadri as an ideal fit for Montreal, emphasizing his two-way game, physicality, and experience in the Canadian market. NHL insider Pierre McGuire believes that adding a player with Kadri's "street cred" could elevate the Canadiens to another level. McGuire suggested Kadri would be an ideal fit as the Canadiens' second-line centre.

Kadri is currently in the fourth year of a seven-year, $49 million contract. In the 2024–25 campaign, Kadri had 67 points. To make the move work, Montreal might need to clear cap space, potentially by including Kirby Dach in a trade package. The Flames may also need to retain a portion of Kadri's salary.

Wolf Howls in Calgary

Dustin Wolf, the Calgary Flames goaltender, has solidified his position as the team's starter. The 24-year-old from Gilroy, California, has impressed with his performance, earning a seven-year, $52.5 million contract extension with the Flames.

Wolf's journey to the NHL has been marked by success at every level. Before the NHL, Wolf played for the Everett Silvertips of the Western Hockey League (WHL), where he was a two-time winner of the WHL Goaltender of the Year. In the 2024-25 season, Wolf appeared in 53 games for the Flames, posting a 29-16-8 record, a .910 save percentage, and a 2.64 goals-against average. His performance placed him among the top NHL goaltenders in various statistical categories.

Canucks' Center Conundrum

The Vancouver Canucks find themselves in a situation where they are stuck with their current centers. Details surrounding the Canucks' specific challenges with their centers are currently limited, but it suggests potential difficulties in making desired changes to their roster.