Because the Toronto Maple Leafs gear up for preseason motion, guess on one younger ahead to make some waves. That’s Easton Cowan. Cowan is understood for his aggressive edge and spectacular resume and is raring to show himself and safe a spot on the roster.
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If he has his say, he’s already settled on making the Maple Leafs roster. He’s that assured. However how will the group play it? The crew faces a fragile steadiness between accelerating his growth and making certain he’s not pushed too shortly into the NHL.
Given His Youth and Power, Cowan Ought to Be Good to Go
“He’s a aggressive child,” Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving commented. “He’s had an awesome summer time, nevertheless it’s been quick. He performed late and began early with the Canadian junior crew [summer] camp.”
Cowan’s summer time was something however idle. Regardless of a demanding schedule that included late playoff motion and early nationwide crew commitments, the 19-year-old turned heads final season. He was named the Ontario Hockey League’s Most Excellent Participant and earned MVP honors within the playoffs whereas main the London Knights to an OHL championship.
“Aggressive, canine on a bone,” Treliving famous. “Excellent participant. However he’s a younger participant, too.”
Cowan Is Greater and Stronger Than He Appears to be like, and He’s Rising
Standing simply shy of six ft, Cowan has grown over the summer time however stays one of many smaller gamers on the roster. However that hardly means he’s a pushover. His efficiency in rookie camp can be essential as he competes for a spot with the primary squad. The camp, which incorporates video games in opposition to Montreal Canadiens prospects on the Bell Centre, will take a look at his readiness.
“You wish to ensure you’re placing him ready to succeed and never speeding the method,” Treliving stated. “He’s excited to get going this week, and I’ll be enthusiastic about camp. And that’s why you undergo the exhibition and coaching camp, and we’ll see the place at when the large boys present up.”
How Difficult Is the Maple Leafs Choice?
The Maple Leafs face a difficult determination. If Cowan reveals effectively, they have to reply the query: How do they combine Cowan successfully with out stalling his growth? Dashing him into the NHL earlier than he’s absolutely ready may hinder his long-term development. Then again, sending him again to junior hockey would possibly delay his progress.
As preseason unfolds, all eyes can be on Cowan to see if he can rise to the event and reveal that he’s prepared for the following step in his profession.
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