The Vancouver Canucks have traded center David Kämpf to the Washington Capitals in exchange for a sixth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, according to Darren Dreger of TSN.
The transaction was finalized shortly before Friday's 3 p.m. ET trade deadline. Kämpf, 31, has appeared in 38 games for the Canucks this season, tallying two goals and four assists for six points. He originally joined Vancouver as a free agent on Nov. 15, 2025, after his contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs was terminated earlier in the season.
For the Capitals, the addition of Kämpf bolsters their defensive depth at the center position. Known as a defensive specialist, the 6-foot-2 forward has carved out a role as a reliable penalty killer throughout his 574-game NHL career. He has previously played for the Chicago Blackhawks and the Maple Leafs before his brief stint in Vancouver.
Vancouver's decision to move Kämpf for draft capital comes as the team navigates a busy deadline day. The Canucks also traded forward Lukas Reichel to the Boston Bruins earlier today for a similar return. By moving Kämpf's $1.1 million cap hit, the Canucks gain additional flexibility while recouping a late-round asset for a player who was set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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