Easton Cowan showed different side of his game in first Leafs preseason game

"While everyone thought Cowan's offensive ability would be the reason he made the roster, his first preseason game told a different story. In the game against the Senators, Cowan was coming off the ice and laid a hit on David Perron, which caused a brief scuffle. This hit was posted all over social media and increased his chances of making the roster. But how does this hit make Cowan more likely to make the roster?"

"Throughout most of his career, Cowan has received the most praise for his offensive ability. He's a great skater and uses his speed to steal the puck from the other team. This creates more opportunities to get the puck in the back of the net. Cowan is also able to get the puck to his teammates, making him a center point of a team's offensive attack. This was the role many thought Cowan would take."

"However, if this physical element of the Cowan game continues, it'll give the Leafs the edge they've been lacking. The biggest criticism both fans and the media have about the Maple Leafs is how soft they are. They don't have anyone who can lay the big hit or use physical play to help the team get the advantage. It's the biggest reason they've struggled in the playoffs over the past few years."

Easton Cowan, the 28th overall pick in the 2023 NHL draft, has a strong chance to make the Maple Leafs' opening-night roster despite a crowded forward group. A preseason hit on David Perron against the Senators sparked a brief scuffle, circulated widely on social media, and boosted his roster prospects. Cowan combines excellent skating, speed, puck-stealing, scoring instincts, and playmaking, making him central to offensive attacks. The addition of consistent physical play would address Toronto's reputation for softness and add a needed dimension in playoffs. Cowan showed physicality in the OHL, suggesting this role is realistic.

Read at Editor In Leaf