In a surprising turn of events, the Toronto Maple Leafs have suspended forward David Kampf without pay after he abruptly left the Toronto Marlies, their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate.
According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, this situation has been developing for days, and a contract termination has always been a possible outcome.
“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.”
As reported by Puckpedia, Kampf’s suspension means the Maple Leafs no longer carry his salary cap burden in the AHL. This could save them approximately $1.25 million this season and $1.75 million next year.
Earlier reports suggested that David Kampf was stepping away from the Maple Leafs, adding more uncertainty about his future in the organization.
The Toronto Maple Leafs’ suspension of David Kampf signals a breaking point in their relationship, with a contract termination appearing increasingly inevitable.