Easton Cowan’s Challenging Path at Maple Leafs Training Camp
The Toronto Maple Leafs are gearing up for a competitive training camp, filled with a surplus of forwards vying for limited roster spots. With at least 13 positions up for grabs and the possibility of carrying an extra forward, the stakes are high. This scenario leaves several players facing the prospect of being sent down to the AHL or even traded. Among those fighting for a spot is Easton Cowan, the Maple Leafs’ top prospect.
The Competition Ahead
Cowan, who possesses the potential to evolve into a top-six forward, faces a formidable challenge to secure a place on the roster. Maple Leafs insider Joshua Kloke highlights the uphill battle Cowan must contend with, noting that the team currently boasts 14 players who are well-established in the NHL. “Whether the likes of David Kampf, Nick Robertson, and Calle Jarnkrok are on the opening-night roster is up for debate,” Kloke explained. “However, even if General Manager Brad Treliving moves on from one or two players before camp, every other player has far more professional experience than Cowan.”
The situation is compounded by the coaching staff’s preference for veterans, which makes the crowded depth chart particularly daunting for the young prospect. “That leaves Cowan with an uphill battle,” Kloke added. The current roster is designed with a win-now mentality, rather than one focused on future development. While the organization is intrigued by Cowan’s creative playmaking, relentless energy, and competitive edge, there is little room for a gradual development process in such a challenging division.
Aiming for the NHL
If Cowan does not make the Maple Leafs’ roster, he will start his professional career in the AHL. This transition could ultimately benefit him, allowing for growth and adjustment to the pro level before stepping onto the NHL stage. Despite the skepticism surrounding his immediate chances, Cowan remains resolute about his aspirations. “My mind’s pretty free right now. I’ve got no worries. I know I’ll be playing somewhere in Toronto this year,” he shared. “And obviously I want to play in the NHL, but I’ve just got to have a good mindset and keep it free.”
Selected 28th overall in the 2023 NHL Draft, Cowan comes off a successful campaign with the London Knights, where he played a pivotal role in their Memorial Cup victory. He acknowledges the need to enhance his defensive game while remaining confident that his offensive skills will flourish. “I’ve got to be a worker, I’ve got to be a hound, get pucks in, get pucks out, play simple,” Cowan stated. “Because me and the Leafs organization know that if I do that, my offense will take over. So I just (have to) focus on defense first, and the offense will come.”
Adjusting to the Pro Game
As Cowan approaches his third NHL training camp, he is aware that adjustments are necessary to thrive at this level. Coach Craig Berube stressed the importance of gaining the coaching staff’s trust through a straightforward and aggressive playing style. “We need him to get the trust of the coach by playing a simple, north game, being that hounder and forechecker, and being a difficult guy to play against,” Berube remarked. “He’s gotta change a little bit, because junior is different than pro. We all know that. Cowboy’s had a real good summer. He’s stronger, he’s bigger. He’s prepared, and he understands what he needs to do to try to make the team.”
With the potential to fill the void left by Mitch Marner, Cowan’s journey through training camp will be closely watched. The blend of youthful promise and the need for immediate contributions makes this a pivotal moment in his career.
