Veteran center David Kampf has temporarily stepped away from the AHL's Toronto Marlies to evaluate his future. Over the offseason, the Maple Leafs attempted to trade Kampf, but no deal was reached. As a result, he was waived during training camp and, after going unclaimed, assigned to the AHL Toronto team.
General Manager Brad Treliving signed the 30-year-old to a four-year, $9.6 million contract just over two years ago, making this outcome unexpected. The original plan was for Kampf to anchor the fourth line and excel in faceoffs and penalty killing.
However, under coach Craig Berube, his role diminished last season, with lower-cost players now taking his spot on the roster. This season, Kampf appeared in only four of the Marlies' seven games and missed the recent road game in Chicago.
Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reports that the veteran is taking a few days to think about his future.
In recent years, some players have left guaranteed contracts hoping for better NHL opportunities or to return to the league, including Conor Sheary, Brandon Saad, and Filip Zadina. Kampf might be considering a similar path, despite potentially forfeiting over $3 million owed this season, next season, and the next season’s signing bonus.
David Kampf is reconsidering his hockey career after being waived to the AHL, weighing options that may involve giving up significant guaranteed money for a chance to return to or improve his NHL standing.
Would you prefer the summary to be more analytical or neutral?