Avalanche Nazem Kadri Hopeful He Won't Be Traded

The Colorado Avalanche weren't able to get over the hump during last season's playoffs and some have pointed the finger to center Nazem Kadri. The two-way pivot was suspended once again last postseason after hitting St Louis Blues defenseman Justin Faulk with a check to the head. Kadri spoke to the media and feels like his teammates and the organization still have his back.

They understand who I am as a person and what kind of character I have. I'd like to think I have everyone's respect in that locker room.

This was the third time Kadri's been suspended from the playoffs after it happened twice with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Avs forward has a hard time keeping his emotions in check at key points of the season and is still a work in progress.

As for his teammates, Avs star Mikko Rantanen admitted his team has his back and reiterated there aren't any trust issues and that Kadri is a veteran and everybody will get over it.

Last season Kadri finished with 32 points in 56 games and is in the final season of his current contract, paying him $4.5 million. He holds a no-trade clause, where he's submitted a list of 10 teams he does not want to play for. At this point, sounds like he's remaining in Colorado....for now.

Photo credit:  Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports