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Maple Leafs’ Jarnkrok & Kampf Are Underappreciated

David Kampf Toronto Maple Leafs

What does it mean for an NHL hockey player to be under-appreciated? Typically, it means that their contributions to the team are not fully recognized or valued by fans or the media. However, at the same time, the fact that these players continue to play and be part of the team on the ice means that they are (at least) appreciated by the coaching staff.

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Underappreciated players are usually not stars. They usually lack flashy offensive statistics, or they’re seldom in the spotlight that seems to shine brightly on the star players on a team. Still, underappreciated players often have a significant impact on the team’s success, without receiving the recognition they deserve.

In my mind, there are a number of under-appreciated players currently on the Toronto Maple Leafs’ roster. In this post, I’ll share why I believe David Kampf and Calle Jarnkrok are two of them. 

The Offensive Growth of David Kampf with the Maple Leafs

Kampf has made progress in his offensive game since joining the Maple Leafs. When he came to the team, he was seen as a bit of a washout with the Chicago Blackhawks because they didn’t qualify him and let him walk to free agency. General manager Kyle Dubas swooped in and signed Kampf to a deal worth $3 million over two years.

David Kampf, Toronto Maple Leafs (Photo by Kevin Sousa/NHLI via Getty Images)

Many wondered why at the time. What could Kampf bring to the team? The answer is that he’s turned into one of the team’s most productive defensive players, and he’s on a bargain contract as well.

Before he laced up his skates with the Blue and White, he was known for his defensive abilities. However, few might have been able to predict how the Czech player would improve offensively. 

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With the Maple Leafs, he’s been steadily improving his point production. In just one and a half seasons with the Maple Leafs, he’s already surpassed his goal-scoring and point totals from his four seasons in Chicago. He’s not only been able to adapt to the Maple Leafs’ system but he’s steadily growing into a secondary scorer for his new team. For as small as his goal total might be, they regularly come at exactly the right times.

When he’s been given more opportunities to contribute offensively, he’s done well. No one will suggest that he’s lighting it up, but his numbers have been a surprise,…

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