The Maple Leafs are trying to move a contract no one wants
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
The Toronto Maple Leafs are desperately trying to move David Kampf, and a trade would benefit both sides, the issue is that his interest level has plummeted -- and now we know it has to do with money.
The saga of David Kampf is set to be resolved this Monday barring any extenuating circumstances, and whether it be a trade, contract buyout or contract termination; he's going to be gone soon.
They would love to try and get something back for him, but the trade market has been quiet, and there's also the issue of him having walked away from the team which could signify some serious attitude problems.
Why Teams Aren't Willing to Absorb Kampf's Contract
However that might just be one of several factors including his potential signing bonus, but according to one NHL Insider -- the entire contract is a nightmare.
Per Chris Johnston, on his podcast The CJ Show, the Toronto Maple Leafs are having difficulty finding a buyer for Kampf not only because of his signing bonus, but the entire deal:
Not too many teams are eager to take on his contract.
However that wasn't the only reason, as it looks like Toronto does not want to just dump Kampf to take on something they don't want:
The Leafs are not in the mood to just take back some garbage contract.
It makes sense that Brad Treliving doesn't want to add even more headaches to his cap situation, nor does he want to bring back a player who isn't going to help out.
There's three key issues holding things up with a Kampf deal, and all are equally as difficult to navigate:
- $2.4-million for a fourth-liner is hard to rationalize; especially with some of the bargain deals around the league.
- A trade would be beneficial for both parties but his market is ice cold, and his recent actions may deter teams.
- A contract termination would give him control over his career but have him miss out on salary and also potentially pay back a signing bonus.
Why Treliving Is Cornered No Matter What He Does
With the team needing reinforcements somewhere, whether it be from the AHL or through waivers/trade they need as much cap space as possible and can't afford to have Kampf's money essentially wasted toiling in the minors.
But at this point, if he is able to get a deal for anyone and it's a cheaper alternative to Kampf, they need to do it.
The longer this drags out, the worse it's going to get and Kampf is only going to continue keep getting frustrated and disconnected from the team.
That's not worth taking on money for another player who will essentially do nothing for the NHL team although maybe the team could find a better defensive replacement for Philippe Myers though that's asking a lot.
Toronto has done well for themselves not to hold onto any deals that are hurting them (minus maybe a couple iffy deals) and have even dealt some away in impressive fashion.
But getting rid of David Kampf seems like the worst situation possible, and for Brad Treliving he needs to find a way out.
While it may hurt him a bit to take something he doesn't want to, the team's decided he's not part of their plans.
Right now the team needs to end this entire thing one way or another and Brad Treliving needs to take what he can get.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 10 | 1576 ANSWERS The Maple Leafs are trying to move a contract no one wants Do you think Brad Treliving should trade David Kampf regardless of the return? | ||
| Yes | 1414 | 89.7 % |
| No | 162 | 10.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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