Latest on David Kampf
Veteran center David Kampf has temporarily stepped away from the AHL's Toronto Marlies to evaluate his future. Over the offseason, the Maple Leafs aimed to trade Kampf, but no deal materialized. Consequently, he was waived during training camp, went unclaimed, and was assigned to the Marlies.
General Manager Brad Treliving signed the 30-year-old to a four-year, $9.6 million contract just over two years ago, making this outcome unexpected. Initially, Kampf was expected to anchor the fourth line while excelling in faceoffs and penalty killing. However, under coach Craig Berube last season, his role diminished, and lower-cost players have since taken his spot on the roster.
This season, Kampf appeared in only four of seven Marlies games heading into the weekend and did not play in Chicago. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reports that the veteran is taking a few days to consider his options.
In recent times, several players have left guaranteed contracts seeking better NHL opportunities or a return to the league. This group includes Conor Sheary, Brandon Saad, and Filip Zadina. Kampf might be considering a similar path, though it would mean forfeiting over $3 million owed in salary and signing bonuses for this and the next season.
"The veteran is taking a couple of days to ponder his future." — Elliotte Friedman
Author’s summary: David Kampf is contemplating his career path after being waived and assigned to the AHL, weighing the financial sacrifice against a potential NHL return.