Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images After parting ways with star winger Mitch Marner in a blockbuster sign-and-trade with the Vegas Golden Knights, the Toronto Maple Leafs find themselves in a period of transition. While they’ve added depth through trades, one name creating buzz is 2023 first-round pick Easton Cowan. The 19-year-old forward is determined to turn heads at training camp and stake his claim on the Leafs’ opening night roster.
Easton Cowan targets NHL debut as Maple Leafs enter new era after Mitch Marner trade
With Marner’s departure freeing up cap space and creating a void in Toronto’s top six, the Maple Leafs have retooled by acquiring Matias Maccelli, Nicolas Roy, and Dakota Joshua. But Cowan, the 28th overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft could be the most intriguing addition to the offensive mix. Known for his speed, two-way play, and high-pressure performance, Cowan is expected to seriously challenge for a roster spot this fall.Cowan starred with the OHL’s London Knights, scoring 83 goals and 218 points in 168 games over three seasons. His playoff numbers were even more impressive: 94 points in 55 games, including key performances in two OHL championships and a Memorial Cup victory this past season. His coach, Dale Hunter, recently endorsed his NHL readiness on The FAN Morning Show, stating: “He’s going to push to make the team… I’m betting he’s going to make it.”
Maple Leafs’ crowded forward lineup creates uphill battle for Easton Cowan’s NHL roster spot
Despite his standout junior résumé and growing confidence, Cowan faces an uphill battle. Toronto already has 14 forwards on one-way NHL deals for 2025–26, not including restricted free agent Nicholas Robertson, whose future with the team remains uncertain amid trade speculation.If Robertson stays, Cowan’s route to the NHL becomes narrower, but there could still be opportunities. He may need to outplay veterans like Calle Järnkrok or Michael Pezzetta to earn a bottom-six role, with the possibility of moving up the lineup as the season progresses. Cowan has publicly stated that he thrives under pressure and welcomes the challenge of high-stakes environments like Toronto.Easton Cowan’s NHL readiness is becoming hard to ignore. With a strong development camp and training camp ahead, he has the tools, confidence, and timing to make a serious push. As the Maple Leafs shift into a post-Marner era, Cowan’s rise could become one of the most compelling storylines of the season.Also Read: Connor McDavid contract update: Edmonton Oilers GM Stan Bowman ‘encouraged’ by early NHL extension talks with superstar forward