Deadline Given for Resolution Between Toronto Maple Leafs and David Kampf

While the whole ordeal between between the Toronto Maple Leafs and forward David Kampf seems a bit messy, it doesn't appear it will be dragged out, at least.

Kampf, who has yet to play in the NHL this season, left the AHL's Toronto Marlies earlier this week. It was reported that he was deciding his hockey future, presumably believing he belongs in the NHL. He was suspended without pay in what was a cap move more so than an official penalty on the part of the Maple Leafs.

According to Dave Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, Kampf's suspension from the Maple Leafs/Marlies won't last long. He explained a trade is the preference from Kampf's camp, but the option of a mutual termination of the time left on his $2.4 million dollar a year deal is still open if that doesn't happen.

Many were sceptical of Kampf's four-year, $9.6 million deal when it was signed, and their skepticism has been justified. Kampf may prefer a trade, but the chances of something getting done seem slim. The Maple Leafs will have to retain some salary, even as much as 50 percent until the end of the 2026-27 season, in order to sweeten any deal for the 30-year-old forward.