Nazem Kadri

Age: 21
Position: Centre/Winger
Height: 6'0
Weight: 188lbs
Drafted by Toronto Maple Leafs in 2009, 1st Round 7th Overall Pick.
Currently playing with Toronto Marlies (AHL)

Of all the Leafs prospects in the system, Nazem Kadri is most ready for the NHL. He is by far, one of the most skilled players the Leafs have had in their system in a very long time. Nazem possess high playmaking skills allowing him to make creative plays with slick and accurate passes.  Not only can he make passes, he can also score goals too, as his stick handling skills are top notch and he possess an accurate wrist shot as well. Nazem Kadri is also known for playing on an edge by playing physical and agitating his opponents by getting under their skin.  His skill combination with physical edge makes him a dangerous threat for opponents each night.

He has made short stints in the NHL over the past two seasons, but has not been able to stick with the team. One of the main reasons why Nazem has not been able to earn a permanent roster spot in the Leafs line up is because of his defensive play and he has not adjusted well to the NHL yet.  Over the past 2 seasons, he has been working to improve his defensive play and to not cause any turnovers that would hurt his team.  It has been one of his weak points since his junior days and it is very evident when you watch him play in the NHL.  Working with the coaching staff with the Toronto Marlies, has helped Nazem Kadri strengthen his weakness and evident by his recently play with the Leafs, he has developed a better awareness defensively and has learned to make smarter plays to minimize turnovers.

With his skill, creativity, and physical edge, Nazem Kadri has potential to develop into an important piece of the Toronto Maple Leafs. There are glaring weaknesses to his play that is currently being worked on but once Nazem can put everything together, he will be very successful in the NHL.  The pressure is on him to prove to Leafs fans and Leafs management why he was drafted 7th overall in 2009, but I believe he has the confidence, attitude and skills to accept the challenge and succeed.  Toronto Maple Leafs fans have been looking forward to Nazem to develop into a high impact player for the Leafs since his draft day and that day looks to come very soon based on his recent play in the NHL.