Maple Leafs Rookie Easton Cowan Aims to Prove Worth After Olympic Break
Toronto Maple Leafs forward Easton Cowan is feeling rejuvenated and ready to demonstrate his value to the team following the Olympic break. The 20-year-old rookie, who was a healthy scratch in the club's final three games before the hiatus, expressed his eagerness to seize any opportunity to return to the lineup.
"I know I got more to give," Cowan told the Toronto Sun on Tuesday. "The Olympic break was a good reset. Whenever I get a chance to line up, I'll take full opportunity."
Uncertainty Surrounds Cowan's Immediate Return
However, when that chance will come remains uncertain. Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube has not committed to inserting Cowan into the lineup for Wednesday night's game against the Tampa Bay Lightning as Toronto resumes play.
"I'm not sure he is going to start in Tampa yet or not," Berube said. "But he's definitely an important part of the team and we'll see how it goes. I can't really determine that right now."
This ambiguity raises questions about Cowan's role, especially given his solid performance this season. With 17 points in 43 games and generally reliable defensive play, Cowan has not appeared out of his depth in his first NHL campaign.
The Case for Cowan's Inclusion
If Cowan is indeed an important part of the team, as Berube suggests, then giving him a chance to prove it seems logical. The argument that the Leafs' playoff chances—however slim—are better with veteran Calle Jarnkrok in the lineup over Cowan is debatable at best.
Cowan's absence from the ice since January 29th is puzzling. He acknowledged that it was "unfortunate" he didn't play in the last three games before the break, but noted that Toronto won all three. Like most first-year players not named Matthew Schaefer—the New York Islanders' teenage defensive standout—Cowan has experienced typical rookie adjustments.
Adjusting to the NHL Grind
Part of Cowan's challenge has been adapting to a part-time role in the NHL after being a key contributor for the London Knights in the Ontario Hockey League. "I feel like most guys deal with that," Cowan said. "It comes with turning pro. It's a job. You just have to stay positive."
To secure a more permanent spot once he returns, Cowan plans to simplify his game. "Play more simple and direct and get back to how I was playing at the beginning of the year," he explained. "It's a grind. There's a lot of hockey. You have to prepare your body and take care of it."
As the Maple Leafs navigate the remainder of the season, Cowan's determination and refreshed mindset could provide a boost. His willingness to embrace the professional grind and focus on fundamentals may just earn him the consistent ice time he seeks.
