Latest On David Kampf

Veteran center David Kampf has temporarily stepped away from the AHL’s Toronto Marlies to reflect on his future in professional hockey. Over the offseason, the Toronto Maple Leafs explored trade options for Kampf, but no deal materialized.

After being placed on waivers during training camp and going unclaimed, Kampf was assigned to the Marlies. This outcome was unexpected given that GM Brad Treliving had signed the 30-year-old forward to a four-year, $9.6 million contract just over two years ago.

Role Changes and Team Dynamics

The plan had been for Kampf to anchor Toronto’s fourth line, excelling in faceoffs and penalty killing duties. However, under head coach Craig Berube, his ice time diminished last season, and lower-cost players have since taken over his spot on the main roster.

Current Situation

This season, Kampf appeared in only four of seven games with the Marlies before the weekend. According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, he also sat out the road game in Chicago while taking a few days to consider his next steps.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported that Kampf “is taking a couple of days to ponder his future.”

Possible Next Steps

In recent years, several NHL players have walked away from guaranteed contracts in pursuit of new or more favorable opportunities, including Conor Sheary, Brandon Saad, and Filip Zadina. Kampf could be weighing a similar decision, though doing so would mean forfeiting more than $3 million in remaining salary and bonuses.

Author’s Summary

David Kampf, once a reliable depth player for the Maple Leafs, is reassessing his career future after losing his roster spot and being assigned to the Marlies.

NHL Rumors - ProHockeyRumors.com — 2025-11-03