Kampf Saga Reaches a Breaking Point

The situation between the Toronto Maple Leafs and center David Kampf, which has been dragging on since the beginning of the season, appears to be heading toward a conclusion. After failing to make the opening day roster, the forward was demoted to the Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League.

The situation escalated last week when Kampf left the team, a decision that resulted in an unpaid suspension from the organization.

A Monday Deadline Looms for Kampf

It has been reported that Kampf and his agent, JP Barry, are mulling over their options. Due to the suspension, the Maple Leafs are currently not paying any of Kampf's salary, granting them a temporary reduction in his cap hit. Now, according to sources, Kampf will take the weekend to make a final decision on his hockey future by Monday.

Why a David Kampf Trade Remains Unlikely

At this time, it feels highly unlikely that Toronto is able to find a trade partner for the forward. Reports have indicated that both the Maple Leafs and the player's agent have explored external options, but have found no success.

It does, however, feel like a real possibility that if Kampf makes the decision to terminate his contract, he would quickly find NHL work. At this time, it is not the player's skill that is prohibitive to an NHL deal; it's his salary cap hit, with no team willing to take on his over $2 million AAV.

The Real Prize: Maple Leafs Eager for Cap Flexibility

For the Maple Leafs, the priority is clear, the salary, cap, and roster spot are the most important factors. The team is reportedly unwilling to retain any salary in a potential trade, making a move far less likely.

With the Monday deadline looming, it will be interesting to see what each party decides, but the $1.25 million in cap space is something that the Maple Leafs could really use. Finding a way out of one of the worst deals of Brad Treliving's Maple Leaf career, without having to pay additional assets, would be a true win.