Nazem Kadri hopeful to make Canadian Olympic team despite camp snub

After a career-high 35-goal season, Calgary Flames center Nazem Kadri remains hopeful to represent Team Canada at the 2026 Olympics, despite not receiving an invite to the team’s Olympic orientation camp. Speaking with Julian McKenzie of The Athletic, Kadri said he felt he “deserves a chance” to represent his country.

“I feel like I deserve a chance," Kadri said. "I think over the last few seasons I’ve certainly proven that with my statistics and the winning pedigree. I think it speaks for itself."

To his credit, Kadri hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down despite entering his mid-30s. Over the past three seasons, he has recorded 88 goals and 198 points while appearing in every regular-season game. 

What’s more, Kadri has displayed postseason success, including winning the Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 2021-22, where he secured 15 points and a plus-seven rating in 16 games. Still, his name was not among the 42 players invited to Hockey Canada’s Olympic orientation camp. In response, the 34-year-old shared a direct message on social media questioning why he was left off the list. Asked if he felt his social post would hurt or help his chances, Kadri noted he’s not quite sure, noting that the post shouldn’t be taken too seriously.

One of the main issues Kadri will face are the incredible names Canada has at the center position. Sidney Crosby, Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon were already named to Canada’s preliminary roster. Then there is a host of additional center options for Canada to consider, with some known for their pure offensive skill and others offering a blend of scoring and defensive reliability. These names include Connor Bedard, Sam Bennett, Macklin Celebrini, Quinton Byfield, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Brayden Point, Mark Scheifele, Sam Reinhart and John Tavares — all of whom will be looking to center their own line in Milan.

With that said, Kadri still likes his chances despite being a self-named “long shot.”

“Honestly man, it would be an absolute dream come true to show how crack that team,” Kadri said. “I’ve been a long shot before. I’m looking forward to giving myself an opportunity. But I understand I’m going to have to play well."