Cowan’s Bid for a Spot on the Maple Leafs Roster
As the Toronto Maple Leafs embark on their training camp, all eyes are on Easton Cowan, the organization’s promising prospect who is eager to secure a place on the roster. This marks Cowan’s third training camp with the team, and the 2023 NHL Draft’s 28th overall pick is keen to make a lasting impression after a mixed experience in previous camps.
A Newfound Confidence
Cowan’s journey has not been without its challenges. He came close to making the roster in his rookie year but faced difficulties last season. Fast forward to this year, and the young winger appears to have turned a corner. Veteran center John Tavares has noted a marked improvement in Cowan’s demeanor and approach. “He just seems a lot more comfortable,” Tavares observed. “He has a much better understanding of what training camps are all about and what the expectations are at the NHL level. He’s not trying to do too much; he’s letting his talent and skill set shine through his work ethic.”
Potential Impact on the Team
Cowan’s offensive prowess could play a pivotal role for Toronto, especially in light of the departure of Mitch Marner. Having helped the London Knights clinch the Memorial Cup last season, Cowan is positioned as a key player who could step into a top-six role. His ability to score and create opportunities could be invaluable to a team with championship aspirations.
Support from Teammates
Cowan’s potential has also caught the attention of defenseman Morgan Rielly, who has witnessed numerous talents rise through the Maple Leafs’ ranks. Rielly emphasizes Cowan’s physical development, noting, “He looks bigger. There’s no doubting what he’s capable of — he’s put that on display.” Rielly acknowledges the pressures that accompany the transition to the NHL, asserting the importance of a supportive environment. “We just want to create an atmosphere where everyone can be themselves, be their best, and compete,” he said.
What It Takes to Make the Team
Despite the positive feedback from teammates, Cowan understands that he still needs to earn his spot on the team. Ahead of training camp, Toronto coach Craig Berube laid out the expectations for Cowan’s performance. “He came into junior as a hounder, a forechecker,” Berube noted. “He developed into a high-end junior player, but he needs to remember how he started. We need him to gain the trust of the coach by playing a simple, north game — being defensively responsible and difficult to play against.”
Berube further highlighted the necessity for Cowan to adapt his game for the professional level, stating, “Junior is different than pro. Cowboy’s had a real good summer. He’s stronger, he’s bigger, and he understands what he needs to do to try to make the team.”
Looking Ahead
As training camp progresses, Cowan has shown promising flashes of skill and determination. The pressure to perform will intensify as the preseason approaches, but with the support of his teammates and a clear understanding of what is required, Cowan is poised for a critical opportunity to prove himself. The coming days will be crucial as he strives to transition from a talented prospect to a valued member of the Maple Leafs.
