Toronto Maple Leafs forward David Kampf has reportedly taken a break from playing with the Toronto Marlies as he considers his future with the organization.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman shared information on his Saturday Headlines segment and again on the "32 Thoughts" podcast, revealing that Kampf is frustrated by not being on the NHL roster. According to Friedman, Kampf's decision to step away may lead to a contract termination.
“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.”
On Saturday Headlines, Friedman noted that the Toronto Marlies were playing in Chicago without Kampf, and while there was talk he might play the next day, it seemed unlikely. He explained that Kampf is taking time to reflect on his situation, which is complicated by the Leafs' roster and salary cap constraints.
“The Toronto Marlies are playing tonight in Chicago in the American Hockey League, and he’s not with them. I was told there’s a possibility he could play tomorrow, but I think that’s unlikely.
David Kampf has taken a couple of days to kind of think about his future. Obviously, he’s not playing with the Maple Leafs right now; he’s in a bit of a roster and salary cap crunch situation, and he got a little bit frustrated.”
Friedman suggested that the Maple Leafs and Kampf might come to an agreement to terminate his contract, though no official confirmation has been made.
Summary: David Kampf is currently stepping away from the Marlies amid frustration over his NHL status, possibly leading to contract termination negotiations with the Maple Leafs.