Veteran NHL centre David Kampf is choosing to look forward, not back, as he prepares to face his former team. Kampf returns to Scotiabank Arena on Saturday night, this time wearing the colours of the Vancouver Canucks, less than two months after the Toronto Maple Leafs terminated his contract.
A New Chapter in Vancouver
The 30-year-old forward has settled into a new role with the Canucks since signing a one-year contract on November 15, 2025. In his first 22 games with Vancouver prior to Saturday's matchup, Kampf recorded two goals and one assist while averaging 15 minutes and 15 seconds of ice time per game.
When asked about his departure from the Maple Leafs organization, which included a brief stint with the AHL's Toronto Marlies before he walked away, Kampf preferred to keep the focus on his present situation. "I don't want to talk about it too much, but I just made a decision and I think I'm happy about my decision and I'm here and I'm moving forward," Kampf stated following the morning skate in Toronto.
Mixed Emotions on a Toronto Return
Kampf spent four seasons with the Maple Leafs, primarily as a reliable fourth-line centre. However, his role diminished after Toronto acquired Scott Laughton at last season's trade deadline, leading to Kampf being a healthy scratch during the playoffs. His future with the club became uncertain when he was conspicuously absent from the team's plans at training camp this past fall.
Despite the business-like end to his tenure, Kampf expressed positive sentiments about returning to the city where he played for several years. "I wouldn't say [I have a] chip [on my shoulder], but of course I'm excited. I have a lot of friends on the other side," he said. "I was here four years, a long time, so it's always good to come back."
Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube also acknowledged the situation, stating, "There are decisions that have to be made, but I'm glad he's back playing."
Olympic Dream Realized for Czechia
Amidst his NHL season, Kampf received significant personal news: he was named to Czechia's roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. This will mark his first appearance at the Olympic Games, adding to his three previous participations with the Czech national team at the IIHF World Championships.
"It means a lot," Kampf said of the Olympic selection. "It's a big tournament for us, for the whole Czech Republic, so I'm excited I got picked and I can play."
As the puck drops on Saturday night, David Kampf's story comes full circle—not with bitterness, but with a professional's resolve to excel in his new environment while cherishing a milestone opportunity on the international stage next month.
