The Toronto Maple Leafs are doing everything they can to give beleaguered forward David Kampf one final shot at making the club this season.
That much was evident in Thursday night’s preseason game against the Montreal Canadiens. The Maple Leafs inserted Kampf into the lineup, giving him top-six minutes throughout the night.
Kampf played in every situation on the night, even getting some power play minutes. While he failed to register a shot on goal, Kampf seemed poised throughout the game.
Perhaps the most interesting situation was Kampf getting an A on his sweater for the night. Without the regulars in the lineup, Kampf, along with fellow veterans Scott Laughton and Steven Lorentz, were the assistant captains on the night.
Overall, the game was an encouraging sign for Kampf. It seems as though the Maple Leafs want to give the Czech center every opportunity to prove he belongs in the NHL this preseason. So, it will come down to Kampf showing what he can do.
Judging from Thursday night’s performance, he’ll have a hard time removing anyone from the lineup. Nevertheless, Kampf could make a case for moving someone like Laughton to the wing so he can draw into the lineup as the fourth-line center.
That situation is still unlikely at this point, but it could be a possibility.
Kampf Could Be among Maple Leafs’ Final Camp Cuts
Despite a positive showing on Thursday night, David Kampf is far from guaranteed a roster spot. He’s got newcomer Nic Roy and Scott Laughton ahead of him on the center depth chart. Even then, other players like Max Domi could get reps down the middle before Kampf does.
That situation signifies that Kampf’s chances of making the team as a center are rather slim. Now, there might be a possibility that the Maple Leafs transition Kampf to the wing. That might give him a better shot at making the team, especially if inconsistency becomes an issue.
There is also the possibility of injuries taking their toll on the club. But beyond a potential move to the wing, Kampf could be among the Maple Leafs’ final cuts this preseason.
If the Leafs do cut Kampf, he’ll hit waivers. At that point, there’s a chance a team desperate for center depth could scoop him up. If that’s the case, it would be a good situation for Kampf. He’d get a shot to play for a team that needs him in the lineup.
Otherwise, he’ll be a key player for the Marlies moving forward.
Leafs Could Keep Kampf Among First Call-Ups
Assuming Kampf lands in the AHL, the Maple Leafs could keep him among the first call-ups. That situation could materialize as injuries will surely play a role at some point. So, having an experienced NHL center waiting in the wings would be something the team has in mind.
Then again, the Maple Leafs could keep Kampf as their 13th forward to start the season. Kampf spent a good chunk of last season and the playoffs in the press box.
It might not be the most ideal situation. But then again, the Maple Leafs have reportedly attempted to trade Kampf, but have found no takers. So, for better or for worse, the Leafs could be stuck with Kampf for the remainder of this season.
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