The relationship between the Toronto Maple Leafs and David Kampf has declined over the past year, reaching a critical point recently.
This season, Kampf did not make the Maple Leafs' opening night NHL roster. It is the first time since 2017-18 that he has been left off the team’s starting lineup.
According to league sources, Kampf has been suspended without pay by the Maple Leafs for refusing to report to their AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies.
This suspension means the Leafs are not currently responsible for the $1.25 million buried cap charge associated with Kampf while he remains in the minors.
"David Kampf is suspended without pay by #LeafsForever for leaving their AHL team, & therefore the Leafs are not currently incurring the $1.25M buried Cap Charge for him while in the minors."
The Maple Leafs have confirmed that this suspension is part of a process aimed at reaching an amicable resolution, with the expectation that Kampf will return to the team soon.
"The expectation is this is resolved soon (he reports back, Leafs have confirmed this, adding that it is part of the process for seeking an amicable resolution)."
Author’s summary: David Kampf’s refusal to report to the AHL led to his suspension without pay by the Maple Leafs, but both sides are working toward a quick, friendly resolution.