Contract Extension on the cards for Maple Leaf’s Jack Campbell

Toronto Maple Leaf’s Jack Campbell is one of a few leading contenders who could be in line for a contract extension along with teammates Darcy Kuemper and Joonas Korpisalo after some impressive recent displays.

The goaltender has recently spoken of his love for the Maple Leaf’s and his desire to stay clearly reflects that, stating: “I truly love it here.

“The guys have taken me in like I’ve been here my whole career. Special group. Special city. The fans are incredible. And any time they embrace me the way they have, it means a lot to me, and there’s nothing more I’d love than to stay here. I guess, ultimately, all we can do — myself included — is win hockey games.”

While he may be somewhat of a late bloomer in the game, there is no mistaking the 29-year-old’s class, something that the Maple Leaf’s fans have more than realised over the last few fixtures.

However, all parties involved are remaining tight-lipped, at least for now, over the possibility of an extension to his contract, though after the side recently tied down teammate Morgan Rielly to an eight-year deal worth $60 million, this suggests that it could be one in a long line set to follow, with Campbell at the front of the pack.

 

Coach Keefe clearly keen

There is no doubt that his coach, Sheldon Keefe is a fan, demonstrated by the faith that he has shown in his player, recently complimenting his all-round game and commitment to the cause: “The performance and the play in the net is one thing, but I’m watching him around the building and watching his interactions and watching how he handles the ups and downs that we’ve gone through here in the early going.

“And he hasn’t changed one bit. So, he’s handled it well. He continues to work, continues to ask questions and wants information, whether it’s from goaltending coach Steve Briere or the rest of our coaching staff. He’s engaged in everything that we’re doing. His personality has remained the same. That’s the stuff I’m most concerned about — and he’s been really good there.”

The tricky part comes in salary negotiation, with the Leaf’s budget relatively sparse, which means that a shorter-term contract could be on the cards. Maple Leafs have had an encouraging start to their campaign, sitting second in the Atlantic Division Eastern Conference, some way behind the Florida Panthers.

For now, the key for Campbell is to keep doing what he is doing and make sure that the consistency in his game continues. There is no doubt that he is demonstrating the right attitude.