It was quite a long story full of uncertainty. At the beginning of November, the 30-year-old defensive center decided that he was no longer going to play in Toronto after an unexpected transfer to the farm. He took a few days to think about it, subsequently terminated his contract with the Maple Leafs organization, was placed on the list of unprotected free agents, so he could look for a new job.
Sparta Prague also showed interest, but information leaked out that more than one NHL player was interested in the services of the Czech striker. And so Kämpf remains in the most prestigious competition in the world. Agreed with Vancouver. “David is a very reliable two-way center who will immediately strengthen us and add depth to our lineup at the center position,” praised head coach Adam Foote for the Canucks club website.
“He’s good on faceoffs and fadeaways, which are two areas where our team needs to improve right now. He has a high hockey IQ and we believe he’ll fit into our organization quickly,” said the Vancouver coach, who are currently struggling and have dropped to 13th in the Western Conference after three straight losses.
As expected, Kämpf will suffer financially. In Toronto, he had two more years left on a total four-year contract worth $2.4 million per year, and he took $1.15 million on the farm. He agreed with Vancouver on the amount of 1.1 million dollars per season.
However, what is essential for the student from Chomutov is that he should return to playing practice again. This is also important news for national team coach Radim Rulík, who would like to use Kämpf’s services at the February Olympics as well. “In my opinion, he is clearly an NHL player and I thought he would play,” said Rulík at the end of October.
Participant of three world championships, he played a total of 536 games in the NHL for Chicago and Toronto, in which he recorded 143 points (48+95). This year, he started only four duels for the farm. Hopefully, Kämpf will soon add more starts in the most prestigious competition.
