Maple Leafs Exploring Trades for Robertson and Kampf
The Toronto Maple Leafs continue to investigate trade opportunities involving forwards Nick Robertson and David Kampf, according to TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger.
Nick Robertson’s Season Overview
Robertson has recorded two goals and four points over 10 games this season. His role has varied significantly, ranging from playing on the top line to being a healthy scratch. In a recent game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, he logged a season-high 17:22 of ice time, starting alongside Auston Matthews and Bobby McMann due to William Nylander's injury.
David Kampf’s Situation
Kampf, 30, is currently in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Toronto Marlies, where he has one assist in four games. He was waived before the season started. Although his cap hit is $2.4 million through next season, Kampf counts $1.25 million against Toronto’s salary cap while playing in the AHL.
Management’s Perspective
“We know that GM Brad Treliving continues to explore the idea of moving both David Kampf and Nick Robertson,” Dreger stated on Insider Trading.
“Now, the veteran David Kampf, who’s in the American Hockey League, it’s more about just getting off the money. For Nick Robertson, this guy is a bottom-six, he’s a top-six, he’s in the press box, he’s scoring goals. He’s a young guy who the Toronto Maple Leafs have time for and they are in no rush to move him out. If they were to get the right sort of return for Nick Robertson, it would be a player of a similar age.”
Summary
The Maple Leafs are open to trading Kampf mainly to reduce salary cap burden, while Robertson remains a young asset they hope to develop further unless a suitable trade arises.
Author's summary: The Maple Leafs are weighing trades for Kampf to ease cap space and Robertson for possible youth upgrades but remain patient with the young forward's development.