Maple Leafs’ David Kampf Away from Team, Uncertain About Future After AHL Demotion
Toronto Maple Leafs centre David Kampf is currently away from the team, considering his next steps after beginning the season in the AHL. At 30 years old, Kampf was waived early in the season and assigned to the Toronto Marlies, where he played four games and recorded one assist.
Possible Resolution Soon
TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston mentioned on the Thursday edition of Insider Trading that a decision concerning Kampf and the Maple Leafs might be reached by the weekend. Johnston explained:
“They’ve got a lot of forwards up and down the organization, and one whose status has been a little bit unclear in the last week is David Kampf. He’s been away from the Toronto Marlies, pondering his future, what he wants to do next. I’m told that could be coming to a resolution by this weekend. Could even see Kampf rejoin the Marlies. We’ll see what happens there.”
Contract and Career Overview
- Kampf is in the third year of a four-year contract worth $9.6 million, with an average annual value of $2.4 million.
- An undrafted free agent, he signed a two-year entry-level contract in May 2017 with the Chicago Blackhawks and spent four seasons there.
- Kampf joined the Maple Leafs in 2021 on a two-year deal as a free agent.
- He scored 26 and 27 points in his first two seasons with Toronto.
- In June 2023, he signed a four-year contract extension.
2024-25 Season Struggles
Under new head coach Craig Berube, Kampf has faced difficulties in the 2024-25 season, managing five goals and 13 points across 59 games, while logging a career-low average ice time of 12 minutes and 24 seconds.
David Kampf’s situation highlights the challenges faced by established players adapting to new roles amid team changes.