The NHL trade deadline has been fairly quiet for the Montreal Canadiens, however, a recent report suggests that activity may be picking up in the near future.
David Pagnotta reports that the Canadiens and the Calgary Flames are discussing a potential trade that would involve center Nazem Kadri. He also suggested Habs forward Patrik Laine could be part of the deal.
Pagnotta says Calgary and Montreal are talking about a Nazem Kadri trade.
“I’m told Patrick Laine may also be involved.”
#flames #GoHabsGo #nhl– NHL Trade Alert (@NHLTradeAlert) 6 March 2026
Montreal Canadiens Brass Tacks
Although there is no pressure on the Habs to make a trade before the deadline, there is no doubt that they could stand to improve their situation in the middle of the ice.
Montreal has destroyed several centers, including forward Robert Thomas of the St. Louis Blues as well as forward Vincent Trocheck of the New York Rangers.
By all accounts, it seems like the acquisition cost for a player like Thomas or Trocheck may be unreasonably expensive, even if they are a good fit for the Canadiens’ lineup.
As far as Kadri is concerned, the Habs have circled around the 35-year-old all season, with reports in November suggesting that Kent Hughes and Co. had identified him as a potential trade target.
The main sticking point when discussing acquiring a player like Nazem Kadri is his age, which certainly doesn’t fit into Montreal’s ideal age group. That being said, the Habs are the youngest team in the league, and adding a little experience to the mix is hardly a bad idea.
On the other side of the trade discussion is Patrik Laine, a player with one of the best shots in the league. His 5v5 numbers are incredibly tough, but it must be said that there is still some value to be found in his usage, especially on the powerplay.
And finally, it should also be noted that the Flames have shown interest in Canadiens defenseman Arbor Zekaj, a player who could be included in a potential trade to grease the wheels a bit.
#Canadiens #reportedly #discussing #Kadri #trade #line #Zekaj
