The storyline of Easton Cowan’s season continues to change. He has gone from a maybe spot job to a full lineup option in Toronto. What should have been a developmental season for the rookie quickly turns into something much bigger as Cowan continues to earn the trust of his coach and his teammates, especially in moments of high pressure. He got the call to skate with Auston Matthews in overtime and buried it, leading head coach Craig Berube to say Cowan has ice in his veins. The coach rewards a player who has earned it, and that will probably continue.
John Tavares said he thinks Cowan doesn’t seem to panic and is calm with the puck. He has a lot of opportunity to continue to grow, “and get better, so the way he is playing has been a big boost for us.”
Auston Matthews added: “I think, like he said, he’s been given a lot of opportunities and it’s amazing what that does for your confidence going forward. It’ll be great to see him here in the next few games.”
William Nylander commented: “Yes, he’s very cold… But you know, he’s always focused on getting better. Even in practice you can see it. Very determined, and that’s what I like to see.”
Cowan earns his advantage with a few other attackers
Dakota Joshua and Matias Maccelli were both healthy on Friday and continued to watch as the rookie took another step forward. For a team looking for accountability, Cowan sends a message and these two would do well to take notice. If they don’t get up, Cowan will pass them and neither will get the nod to the rookie.
What’s so interesting is the time and patience Berube seems to have with Cowan, which Maccelli and Joshua may not get. “Are there mistakes? Absolutely. He’s a young boy and there will be mistakes, but he learns from them, in my opinion, and he listens, and he wants to get better,” the coach said.
Berube’s approval says it all. He certainly sees mistakes, but he also sees a player who doesn’t feel pressure, learns quickly and brings something the Leafs desperately need: urgency. Cowan is no longer just fighting to stay in the NHL.
He’s forcing Toronto to rethink who should play… and who shouldn’t.
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