The Toronto Maple Leafs continue to investigate trade possibilities involving forwards Nick Robertson and David Kampf, according to TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger.
Robertson, recently playing on the Leafs' top line, has logged two goals and four points across 10 games this season. His role has varied significantly, ranging from top-six forward to healthy scratch in the early weeks. In a recent game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, he recorded a season-high 17:22 of ice time, playing alongside Auston Matthews and Bobby McMann when William Nylander was sidelined due to injury.
Kampf spent the season so far in the AHL with the Marlies, contributing one assist in four games after being waived before the season began. Although his cap hit is $2.4 million for next season, his current salary cap charge while in the AHL stands at $1.25 million.
"We know that GM Brad Treliving continues to explore the idea of moving both David Kampf and Nick Robertson," Dreger said on Insider Trading. "Now, the veteran David Kampf, who’s in the American Hockey League, it’s more about just getting off the money. For Nick Robertson, this guy is a bottom-six, he’s a top-six, he’s in the press box, he’s scoring goals. He’s a young guy who the Toronto Maple Leafs have time for and they are in no rush to move him out. If they were to get the right sort of return for Nick Robertson, it would be a player of a similar age."
The Leafs remain patient with Robertson, valuing his youth and versatility, while Kampf's potential trade is more motivated by financial considerations.
Author's summary: The Maple Leafs are cautiously pursuing trades for Nick Robertson and David Kampf, balancing roster needs with salary cap implications and future potential.