Thirty-year-old checking center David Kämpf still has two years left on his contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, carrying a $2.4 million cap hit. However, he has not been playing regularly for the team recently.
Sources close to the organization emphasize that Kämpf's absence is unrelated to his performance or attitude; it is primarily due to salary cap constraints. Although $2.4 million may appear reasonable, Toronto's recent signing of Scott Laughton to an extension suggests that Kämpf might no longer be in their long-term plans.
Kämpf is reportedly considering terminating his contract to become an unrestricted free agent, driven by his strong desire to continue playing.
His story is notable: undrafted, Kämpf established a steady role over five seasons with Chicago and contributed significantly to Czech hockey history when the national team won gold at the 2024 World Championship.
"People around the organization that I’ve spoken with insist his absence has nothing to do with performance or attitude — only the cap situation."
"He’s actually a great story: undrafted, he carved out a solid role in Chicago over five seasons and played a major role in one of the greatest moments in Czech hockey history — when the hometown team captured gold at the 2024 World Championship."
While experts analyze Kämpf’s role in Toronto, speculation grows about which teams, such as the Boston Bruins, might pursue him if he becomes a free agent.
David Kämpf's future with the Maple Leafs is uncertain due to cap issues, and he may seek to continue his career elsewhere as a free agent to gain more playing time.
Author's summary: David Kämpf is considering contract termination with the Maple Leafs due to salary cap issues, aiming to join another NHL team where he can play regularly.