The Toronto Maple Leafs faced a key divisional matchup against the Ottawa Senators on Saturday night, but a significant storyline unfolded off the ice. Rookie forward Easton Cowan was slated to be a healthy scratch for the third consecutive game, a decision that has ignited debate about the team's approach to developing its young talent.
A Pattern of Press Box Views
As the Leafs returned from the Christmas break to host the Senators at Scotiabank Arena on December 27, 2025, the 20-year-old Cowan found himself in familiar territory: watching from above. This marked a third straight game where the promising forward was a spectator, despite the team's desire to climb out of the Eastern Conference basement.
Head coach Craig Berube opted to keep the same lineup that secured a 6-3 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday. Cowan and veteran Calle Jarnkrok were the extra forwards during the team's morning skate. When questioned about managing Cowan's playing time, Berube emphasized patience but acknowledged the long-term concern.
"We won last game … just be patient," Berube stated. "We definitely do not want him sitting out too long. That’s not good for his growth. I think he helps us. I think he’s a good player and he’s only going to get better."
The Case for Cowan's Ice Time
The argument for inserting Cowan back into the lineup is multifaceted. In his 26 games played this season, the rookie has recorded 11 points (4 goals, 7 assists). While he has made typical rookie mistakes, he has not been a defensive liability. His average ice time of 14 minutes and 45 seconds per game indicates the coaching staff's existing trust in his abilities.
Furthermore, with the Maple Leafs recently revamping their last-place power play by promoting Steve Sullivan to assistant coach, Cowan's offensive skills could provide a spark. He possesses the talent to contribute on at least the second power-play unit.
Cowan himself is handling the situation with professionalism. "I control what I can control and that’s working hard each day," Cowan told Postmedia. He spent the Christmas break in his hometown of Mount Brydges, Ontario, taking two full days off to reset. "Whenever I get days off, I try not to think about the game. Right now, during this stretch, I keep trying to get better."
Leadership Backs Cowan's Maturity
Teammates have taken note of the young player's composed approach. Captain John Tavares praised Cowan's mindset and resilience.
"I think the coaching staff is doing a good job communicating with him and has an understanding of his experience through it all," Tavares said. "He has a good head on his shoulders and a good sense of who he is as a player. He has such strong self-belief... I don’t see him get into a game and sense panic or frustration."
Cowan's pedigree suggests he can handle pressure. He excelled as the Memorial Cup MVP with the London Knights last spring and has represented Canada at the past two world junior championships. The intensity of a late-December game against a rival like Ottawa or Detroit is unlikely to overwhelm him.
With the Leafs scheduled to play the Detroit Red Wings on Sunday in a back-to-back, there is a chance Cowan draws back into the lineup. The prevailing sentiment from observers is that once he returns, he should remain in the lineup to play through both successes and struggles, which is the most effective path for his NHL development and for a Leafs team in a likely season-long playoff battle.
