Recent reports indicate that Toronto Maple Leafs forward David Kampf has temporarily stepped away from the Toronto Marlies while considering his future within the organization. This development follows increasing frustration over his current role and lack of NHL playing time.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman discussed the matter during both the Saturday Headlines segment and the Monday edition of his podcast 32 Thoughts. According to Friedman, Kampf has been struggling with the fact that he remains out of the NHL lineup and has taken a short break from the team to evaluate his options. The situation has reportedly created uncertainty about whether his contract with the Maple Leafs will continue.
“I don’t know exactly what was said…but Kampf did leave players with the Marlies [Leafs’ AHL affiliate] with the impression that he was going to terminate his contract.”
Friedman first reported the story on Saturday, noting that the Marlies were playing in Chicago in the American Hockey League and Kampf was not traveling with them. He mentioned there was a slight chance Kampf might play the next day, though it seemed improbable at the time.
Kampf’s decision appears tied to ongoing roster adjustments and salary cap limitations faced by the Maple Leafs. As a depth forward who has spent part of the season in the AHL, his frustration stems from limited ice time and uncertain prospects for returning to the NHL lineup soon.
David Kampf has temporarily left the AHL Marlies amid frustration over limited NHL opportunities, prompting speculation about a possible contract termination with the Maple Leafs.