The Vancouver Canucks have bolstered their forward depth by signing center David Kampf to a one-year, $1.1 million contract. General Manager Patrik Allvin announced the signing Saturday afternoon, adding a veteran presence to the Canucks' lineup.
Kampf, 30, joins the Canucks after a mutual termination of his contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs. He had previously been placed on unconditional waivers by the Maple Leafs for the purpose of terminating his contract. Kampf's previous deal with Toronto carried a $2.4 million annual cap hit and ran through the 2026-27 season.
Prior to the contract termination, Kampf spent the start of the 2025-26 season with the Toronto Marlies, the AHL affiliate of the Maple Leafs. In four AHL games this season, he recorded one assist. Last season with the Maple Leafs, Kampf tallied five goals and 13 points in 59 games.
The Canucks' acquisition of Kampf addresses their need for more stability at the center position. The team has been looking to add depth down the middle since trading J.T. Miller to the New York Rangers late last season. Additionally, injuries to Filip Chytil and Teddy Blueger have further emphasized the need for reliable centers. While Kampf may not provide significant offensive upside, he offers a steady presence and experience in a bottom-six role.
Kampf is a veteran of eight NHL seasons, including time with the Chicago Blackhawks and Toronto Maple Leafs, accumulating 536 career games. An undrafted player, he initially joined the Blackhawks organization in the 2017-18 season and played four seasons with the team. During his time in Chicago, Kampf appeared in nine playoff games in 2020.
Kampf's most productive NHL seasons came during his first two years with the Maple Leafs, where he reached the 20-point mark. Throughout his career, he has primarily played as a bottom-six center, known for his defensive responsibility and face-off ability. The Czech pivot stands at 6'2" and is a left-handed shot.
The Canucks are hoping that Kampf's experience and defensive capabilities will provide valuable depth and stability to their forward group as they navigate the remainder of the 2025-26 season.
