News & Rumors About the Maple Leafs: Kampf, Cowan, & Lisowsky Are All On the Bubble
In this edition of Toronto Maple Leafs News & Rumors, I’ll delve into the stories of three players currently on the bubble for the Maple Leafs roster, each striving to secure and define their place within the organization.
First up is David Kampf. Known for his role as a bottom-six, defensively-focused center, he has been a critical player for the Maple Leafs over the past three seasons. Recently, he had a standout performance in international hockey, helping lead Czechia to victory in the World Championship. He surprisingly showcased significant offensive power during this time, a departure from his usual role as a fourth-line defensive shutdown center.
Next, we’ll look at Easton Cowan. Cowan’s potential is undeniable, and the big question surrounding him is whether he can make the team out of training camp. At just 19 years old, he is not eligible to play in the American Hockey League (AHL). It’s either the NHL or bust for him this season. If he manages to secure a spot on the roster, there’s a strong chance he could play with the team for the entire season. Can he make the jump to the big stage? Even more important, can he stick there?
Finally, we have Brandon Lisowsky, a young player drafted by the Maple Leafs and emerging from junior hockey. Despite his impressive junior career, the Maple Leafs did not offer him a contract, and he subsequently re-entered the NHL Draft. There he went unselected. He’s back at the Maple Leafs’ development camp, determined to earn a contract and find a place within the organization. Can Lisowsky prove himself and secure a future with the Maple Leafs?
These three players are all at critical career junctures, each facing unique challenges and opportunities. Their journeys will be intriguing as they vie for a spot somewhere within the Maple Leafs organization.
According to NHL insider Nick Kypreos, the Maple Leafs might want to trade veteran forward Kampf. He’s currently in the second year of a four-year, $9.6 million contract with a $2.4 million annual salary. The Maple Leafs are over the salary cap by $694,000 and need to clear cap space, making Kampf a potential trade candidate.
Kypreos suggests that the Maple Leafs are considering moving Kampf to address their bottom-six forwards, potentially replacing him with a cheaper option or prospect, like Fraser Minten. NHL insider Chris Johnston also confirms that Kampf, Calle Jarnkrok, and Timothy Liljegren are being considered for trade due to the team’s salary cap constraints.
Kampf is the Maple Leafs’ fourth-line center and a key penalty-killer. Despite his defensive value, his faceoff percentage dropped to 50.9% last season. He recorded eight goals and 11 assists for 19 points in 78 games, which, while solid, might not justify his $2.4 million annual salary given the team’s cap situation.
