Nazem Kadri thanks Maple Leafs, fans: ‘Forever a special place in my heart’

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Former Toronto Maple Leafs centre Nazem Kadri (43) reacts after scoring against the Winnipeg Jets. (Nathan Denette/CP)

Having been drafted by the organization seventh overall in 2009 and spending his entire NHL career with them until Monday’s trade to the Colorado Avalanche, Nazem Kadri has some history with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

As such, Kadri took to Instagram on Tuesday to thanks the Leafs and their fans for his decade with the club.

“Words cannot describe what this city means to me,” Kadri wrote. “You welcomed me in as a boy and watched me grow and evolve in front of your eyes. Thank you for opening your arms up and making me feel right at home. You asked for my heart and I gave you my soul. Forever a special place in my heart.”

Kadri was traded to the Avalanche on Monday along with Calle Rosen and a third-round pick in exchange for defenceman Tyson Barrie, forward Alexander Kerfoot and a sixth-round draft pick.

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