The first reason is that Calgary only made it to the second round of the playoffs, being beat by the Edmonton Oilers. The Colorado Avalanche, on which Kadri was on, then dominated the Oilers.
The second reason is that Kadri had blocked a trade to Calgary during his time in Toronto. We aren't sure what changed from then to now, but it appears now that Kadri finds Calgary a much better destination than it once was.
Pierre LeBrun reported early in the summer that Kadri had turned down a six-year deal with an annual average of $8.5-million ($51-million in total) but did not specify the team.
Kadri's father, Sam, disclosed however that the teams interested were the New York Islanders, New York Rangers, and Columbus Blue Jackets.
Ultimately, Kadri signed a seven-year contract with an annual average value of $7-million ($49-million combined) in hopes to win in the short-term with Calgary's aging roster full of veteran talent.
We will see if this bet pays off!
Source: Blade Of Steel
POLL | ||
Which team would've been the best fit for Nazem Kadri? | ||
Calgary Flames | 361 | 53.6 % |
New York Rangers | 192 | 28.5 % |
New York Islanders | 81 | 12 % |
Columbus Blue Jackets | 39 | 5.8 % |
List of polls |