The Nazem Kadri Trade Is Already Haunting Maple Leafs GM Kyle Dubas

Leafs Nation is divided on Kyle Dubas' performance as the team's General Manager. He has created a skilled and fast paced team, but many criticize the large contracts given to their top line. Further, fan favorite Nazem Kadri was traded to the Colorado Avalanche last summer, and Maple Leafs' fans are still bitter.

Nazem Kadri has been on a tear with the Colorado Avalanche. He tallied 36 points in 51 games this season, but he now has 11 playoff points in 8 games with the team. In fact, he has more playoff points with the Avalanche than he did during his entire tenure with the Maple Leafs.

This wouldn't sting so bad if the Maple Leafs' return for Kadri had been worthwhile. Kadri was traded for elite defenseman Tyson Barrie and Alex Kerfoot. Barrie's production dipped significantly compared to previous seasons, and was a liability on the back end. Additionally, Barrie is an unrestricted free agent and is not expected to return with the team next season. Kerfoot is a great role player with a team friendly contract, but he is by no means an adequate replacement for Kadri.

The Maple Leafs are surely missing the tenacity and compete level of Kadri, and the bitter sentiment only increases as fans witness his value and success with another team.

Photographer: Russell Lansford/Icon Sportswire