The relationship between the Toronto Maple Leafs and David Kampf has been steadily worsening over the past year, reaching a breaking point recently. For the first time since the 2017-18 season, Kampf was not included in the Maple Leafs’ opening night NHL roster after training camp.
Following this, Kampf was assigned to the team's AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, but he refused to report.
According to league sources, David Kampf has been suspended without pay by the Maple Leafs for leaving the AHL team. This suspension means the Leafs currently avoid the $1.25 million buried cap charge associated with him while he is in the minors.
The Maple Leafs have confirmed that Kampf’s suspension and situation are part of a process aimed at reaching an amicable resolution. The expectation is that Kampf will report back soon.
"David Kampf is suspended without pay by #LeafsForever for leaving their AHL team, & therefore the Leafs are not currently incurring the $1.25M buried Cap Charge for him while in the minors."
"The expectation is this is resolved soon (he reports back, Leafs have confirmed this, adding that it is part of the process for seeking an amicable resolution)."
Author's summary: David Kampf's refusal to report to the AHL has led to a suspension without pay by the Maple Leafs, who aim to resolve the situation amicably and avoid the associated salary cap charge.