Report: David Kämpf ‘Frustrated’ With Maple Leafs Situation, Takes Break From Marlies

David Kämpf Reportedly Frustrated With Maple Leafs, Takes Step Back

Toronto Maple Leafs forward David Kämpf has reportedly grown frustrated with his current situation and has temporarily stepped away from the AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies. His decision highlights a complex roster and salary cap challenge for the organization.

Details of Kämpf’s Situation

According to a report by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman during the Saturday Headlines segment on Hockey Night in Canada, Kämpf did not join the Marlies on their recent road trip.

“Kämpf has taken a couple of days to kind of think about his future,” Friedman said. “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.”

The veteran forward, originally from the Czech Republic, was placed on waivers before the season started. When no other NHL team claimed him, Kämpf was assigned to the Marlies.

Contract and Cap Implications

Kämpf is currently in the third year of a four-year deal carrying a $2.4 million annual cap hit. Under league rules, the Maple Leafs must still count $1.25 million of that toward their NHL salary cap, as teams can only obtain a maximum of $1.15 million in cap relief for buried contracts for the 2025–26 season.

The situation has proven difficult for both sides. The Maple Leafs likely hoped to move the player to another club, while Kämpf appears to feel he still belongs at the NHL level.

Author’s Summary

Kämpf’s frustration over his demotion underscores how salary cap constraints and roster limits can create tension even for seasoned NHL players navigating team transitions.

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The Hockey News The Hockey News — 2025-11-02

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