Thirty-year-old center David Kämpf still has two years left on his $2.4 million contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs. However, he has not appeared in recent games for the team.
Sources within the organization emphasize that Kämpf’s absence is unrelated to his performance or attitude, but rather linked to salary cap constraints. Although his cap hit seems manageable, Toronto’s recent decision to extend Scott Laughton suggests Kämpf may not fit into the team’s long-term strategy.
Columnist Jay has analyzed Kämpf’s role in Toronto in depth, while this piece explores which teams could pursue him if he decides to terminate his contract and test free agency — an option that now appears increasingly likely.
“Kämpf simply wants to play.”
Once an undrafted player, Kämpf built a steady career in Chicago and contributed significantly to Czech hockey history when the national team captured gold at the 2024 World Championship.
David Kämpf may end his time with the Maple Leafs to seek new opportunities after salary constraints and shifting team priorities left his future uncertain in Toronto.