David Kampf reveals why he thinks his offensive numbers are rising in Toronto
Many Leafs fans were a bit confused when the Leafs signed David Kampf during the 2021 offseason. The Leafs gave Kampf $1.5 million per season for two seasons, which seemed like a lot for a guy who scored 1 goal in 56 games the year prior.
Knowing what we know now about what Kampf brings to the Leafs' lineup, we now understand why Kyle Dubas was so high on the Czech forward. Since arriving to Toronto, Kampf has exceeded all expectations. He's been great defensively and on the penalty kill and has even seen an uptick in his offensive production.
Granted, the Leafs and Blackhawks play very different styles, but it's tough to deny that Kampf has been a solid addition to the Leafs' lineup - especially given his new-found element of offensive production. When Kampf was asked on Saturday what the key to his increase in production has been this season, he gave as honest an answer as he could.
In 47 games this season, the Jirkov, Czechia native has 7 goals - one less than his career high - with a little under half of the season remaining. The Leafs' puck possession definitely plays a big role in this increased production, but Kampf should also be given some credit for putting himself in a position to score.
Kampf plays on the Leafs 3rd line with longtime Czech international teammate, Ondrej Kase. The pair have great chemistry. They are both defensively responsible but what makes the line a threat offensively is the blazing speed and finishing ability of Kase. In a 3rd line role, Kase has been an excellent play driver and it has rubbed off on Kampf when they're on the ice together.
The Leafs' penalty kill has also benefitted greatly from Kampf's presence. His style of play fits in nicely among the pre-existing Leafs PK guys, such as Mitch Marner, Ilya Mikheyev and Alexander Kerfoot. Kampf has taken over as the team's top penalty killing center this season and he has found excellent chemistry with Mitch Marner on his flank as well.
The 27-year-old is having a career year with the Buds and his $1.5 million cap hit through next season is looking like a steal at this point. Kampf has brought excellent defensive play to the Leafs but the possession based system that the Leafs play has undoubtedly played a big role in the best offensive season of his career. This is exactly what Leafs GM Kyle Dubas was alluding to when he said he felt that Kampf had more offense in him.
