"The good news is that the Leafs are in reasonable shape with their center depth, thanks to their addition of Nic Roy at 3C and an experienced fifth NHL center in David Kampf. With cap flexibility not an issue for the Leafs this fall, avoiding a rush to move out experienced NHLers like Kampf - or Calle Jarnkrok, for that matter - until camp plays itself out has proven a wise approach."
"However, it opens up serious questions now as to whether Cowan starting on an NHL fourth line centered by Kampf is a sensible approach for anyone involved. The Leafs can simply run out Lorentz-Kampf-Jarnkrok as an experienced checking line, while Cowan plays a top role with the AHL Marlies, developing with plenty of all situations minutes and seeing the ice up or down a goal late in games."
Scott Laughton is week-to-week with a lower-body injury after showing preseason chemistry on a line with Steven Lorentz and Easton Cowan and contributing offense in exhibition games. The potential loss complicates a promising fourth-line unit that had shown effectiveness on paper and in camp. The Leafs retain center depth with Nic Roy added at 3C and David Kampf available as an experienced fifth NHL center, and cap flexibility reduces pressure to move veterans immediately. The situation creates a choice between using Cowan on an NHL fourth line or assigning him to the AHL Marlies for top minutes and situational development.
Read at Maple Leafs Hotstove
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