Maple Leafs forward could be targeted by Montreal Canadiens in trade

"The Toronto Maple Leafs want to solve a problem for David Kampf. The veteran center has not accepted his demotion down to the AHL's Toronto Marlies and after just a few games, he has abandoned the team, not reporting for any practices or games. That has resulted in a suspension -- so he isn't even getting paid his $2.4-million salary for his troubles of not being in the NHL -- and as it stands, according to multiple reports, we should see a conclusion to Kampf's tenure in Toronto soon. Whether that is a trade, a mutual termination of contract, or Kampf deciding that playing in the AHL isn't that bad after all."

"Chris Johnston: Re David Kampf: A team like the Canadiens, they don't have a left shot center on their roster, you can't tell me they wouldn't use a player like him; he has attributes that a team like that would find appealing - Chris Johnston Show (11/7)- NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) November 10, 2025"

"On paper, as Johnston points out, it makes sense. The acquisition cost will be barely anything at all and a defense-first center to have and suffocate the opposing team isn't the worst thing to put down your lineup as you're trying to convince everyone that you're for real. The Canadiens sure have some strength down the middle of their lineup, led by Nick Suzuki, but Kampf could have a much better opportunity in Montreal than he ever will in Toronto."

The Maple Leafs attempted to demote David Kampf to the Toronto Marlies, but Kampf refused and left the AHL team after a few games, not reporting for practices or games. Toronto suspended Kampf and is withholding his $2.4-million salary while seeking a resolution. Potential resolutions include a trade, a mutual contract termination, or Kampf accepting AHL assignment. TSN's Chris Johnston noted the Montreal Canadiens could be a low-cost trade destination because they lack a left-shot center and value defense-first forwards. Kampf is signed through 2026–27 at a $2.4-million AAV, raising fit and cap questions.

Read at Editor In Leaf