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A High Upside for Maple Leafs Easton Cowan
Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Easton Cowan has become among the most exciting young Toronto Maple Leafs prospects. The Maple Leafs selected the 19-year-old forward in the first round of the 2023 NHL Draft. What once was a surprise choice has become a solid one. Cowan has shown impressive growth throughout his junior career and continues to turn heads with his development. He has the heart of a lion and is developing the skills to go with it.

Cowan Promises Consistent Offensive Production

Cowan’s offensive production has become a standout feature of his game. One aspect that has revealed itself is his remarkable consistency. Case in point is his 65-game point streak that spanned two seasons. While that made it ineligible for an official record, it didn’t make it any less impressive.

During these 65 games, he scored 41 goals and put up 106 points. While this streak won’t be an official OHL record, it does show Cowan’s ability to perform game after game. Even after his streak ended, he’s put up solid numbers with 27 goals and 32 assists (for 59 points) in just 42 games. He also has a plus-23 rating. That means he’s on the ice for way more goals for his team than against his team. His offensive upside is undeniable, and his ability to maintain such high-level play over an extended period speaks volumes about his potential.

Cowan Is Developing Skills and Hockey IQ

While Cowan’s offensive output has caught attention, there’s more going on with this youngster. His high hockey IQ and solid decision-making have been keys to his growth. He reads the game well, makes smart plays, and uses his skating ability to impact all areas of the rink. Despite still being at least a year away from the NHL, his performance proves he’s developing the skills he needs to play at the NHL level.

Fortunately, Cowan has time to grow physically and develop his game. As he grows, he’ll add strength and be more able to handle the physicality of the professional game. But his determination to battle through adversity on the ice has impressed most within the organization. The motor came first, and with hard work, the development came second. The point is that Cowan’s game will only become more refined as he grows into it.

Cowan Has a Bright Future Ahead

Cowan’s future looks incredibly promising. His work ethic, talent, and passion are all keys that will make him an asset at the next level. Cowan is a player to watch as he continues to develop, whether at the AHL level next season or if he jumps right to the NHL. His future is with this NHL organization. He can put up points. That, combined with his hockey sense, makes him one of the game’s top prospects. And the Maple Leafs have him.

The Bottom Line for Cowan and the Maple Leafs

Easton Cowan could become one of hockey’s best young players. As he continues developing and refining his game, it will be exciting to see how far his talent can lift him in the Maple Leafs organization. Toronto and their fans have plenty to look forward to with Cowan, and his future in professional hockey is looking increasingly bright.

I, for one, am so glad he didn’t get moved along with Fraser Minten at the trade deadline.

This article first appeared on Trade Talk Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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