Penguins Rumors: Pittsburgh Linked to Maple Leafs Free-Agent Forward

The Pittsburgh Penguins are expected to undergo a number of changes this summer as Kyle Dubas looks to put his fingerprints on the roster. The new team president of hockey operations is a very loyal executive who has a history of bringing in players and people he's familiar with. Expect much of the same in Pittsburgh.

According to Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff via the Leafs Morning Take podcast, Maple Leafs forward David Kampf, who is set to hit free agency, is a prime target for the Penguins. Pittsburgh is desperate for a number three center who can play a defensive game and they are looking to gain some foot speed. Kampf checks off both boxes.

Dubas signed the shut-down center in Toronto and it was a great contract where Kampf really excelled in his role. He's 28 years old and still in the prime of his career and can set up nicely in the third hole behind Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.

Kampf is also a great penalty killer, which head coach Mike Sullivan will love. His offensive game is underrated and as a Maple Leaf, he showed flashes of brilliance. In 2022-23 Kampf finished with 27 points in 82 games. 

Expect to see the Penguins offer a three or four year contract at $3.5 million or so. Dubas has already brought in Jason Spezza to work as the Assistant GM, look for a couple of former players to know follow suit with Kampf being the most likely.

Photo credit:  Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports