Jack Campbell admits to wondering about his future in Toronto, but remains focused on winning
For pending unrestricted free agent Jack Campbell, you'd imagine that his focus might be somewhat divided between the second half of the season and what could happen this summer. Will he strike a deal with the Leafs to remain in Toronto, or will he find himself in a new city next season? Well, according to Campbell, winning a Stanley Cup with the Leafs this season has the lion's share of his focus.
Campbell, along with teammate Auston Matthews, took part in the All-Star Skills Competition and All-Star Game on Friday and Saturday and are now preparing to travel back to Toronto to get back to business.
Campbell is often asked what his plans are for next season and whether or not he is leaning towards re-signing with the Leafs, and while he has maintained his love for the city of Toronto and for the Maple Leafs organization as a whole, there is some concern over his strong season driving up his asking price this summer. I don't necessarily believe that Campbell is looking to price himself out of Toronto, so a team-friendly deal could certainly occur.
For now, according to TSN's Chris Johnston, Jack Campbell isn't worried about his next contract. He's only focused on winning the next game. According to Johnston, here's what Campbell had to say on the matter on Saturday.
"I love being a Toronto Maple Leaf. Leafs Nation has been unbelievable for me personally, and then supporting our team. The coaches, my teammates, it's just incredible how spoiled we are, just the support we get from them.
"It's a dream to play in Toronto and I'm just so motivated to try to help us win. To win in Toronto would just be a dream come true."
Even with focus and discipline, a person's mind can wander. Campbell admits that while he tries not to spend too much time thinking about next season, it can be quite unavoidable.
"I mean, I'd love to say absolutely not, but of course we're all human,» Campbell said.
"I just think to myself, 'Just go out and compete for the guys.' That's all it's about, anyway. Obviously, we all have good days, bad days, but it's all about just being in the right mindset for your teammates and just competing for them."
The 30-year-old netminder has compiled a 21-6-3 record with the Buds this season, and is sporting a solid 2.30 GAA and a stellar .925 SV% through the first half.
