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3 Reasons Maple Leafs Fans Will See Cowan as a Black Ace

Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan is having another strong season in junior hockey. Why should fans expect to see Cowan this season?

by
Old Prof
February 3, 2025

When the Toronto Maple Leafs picked Easton Cowan with their first pick in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, many thought the choice was a head-scratcher. Yet, he’s proven the choice was a wise one. The youngster has fire in his belly. Furthermore, what skills he didn’t have, he busted his rear to learn. As a result, Cowan has been on a steady development path since he was Tornto’s surprise selection.

As the current season rolls along, Cowan’s showing he has a good chance of becoming a regular roster member on next year’s Maple Leafs team. However, there’s a chance Maple Leafs fans might see him sooner than next season. While he didn’t crack the NHL roster out of training camp this season, there are several good reasons why the organization might see fit to call him up for the playoffs as a potential “Black Ace” (a player from the minors recalled during the playoffs).

Easton Cowan Maple Leafs NHL prospect Team Canada World Juniors — Easton Cowan Maple Leafs NHL prospect

Three Reasons Why Cowan Might Be Added to the Maple Leafs Roster This Season

Here are three reasons why Maple Leafs fans might see Cowan this season:

Reason One: Cowan Has Impressed with His 64-game Point Streak

Cowan’s offensive game has remained strong throughout the 2023-24 season. After a forgettable World Juniors Team Canada performance, the 19-year-old has bounced back in a big way. He registered an assist in a 4-3 loss to Windsor on Sunday, extending his point streak to a whopping 64 games.

With 17 goals and 38 points in 28 games, Cowan’s still producing at a high level. No, he isn’t at last season’s pace. Still, his ability to keep the streak going shows he’s both consistent and resilient. The young forward never takes a night off or dials it in. In that, he’s impressive. He deserves a call-up only if all he gets is a chance to see what he’ll be part of when his time comes with the Maple Leafs.

Reason Two: Cowan Has a Well-Rounded Game with Improved Play

While Cowan didn’t look NHL-ready during training camp, that’s not uncommon for a young player coming off his draft year. The decision to send him back to the OHL has worked out well. It’s given him more time to hone his game.

Cowan has used a second developmental season in juniors to put up more points, which he’s doing, and to improve his defensive play. If he grows in these areas, especially his two-way game, he’ll make a strong case for being added to the Maple Leafs’ future depth chart. He won’t be out of place if he gets time with the big club this season.

Reason Three: Cowan Potentially Is Pencilled in for a Roster Spot Next Season

Cowan should be counted on to make the Maple Leafs roster in 2025-26. But, if the Maple Leafs need a jolt of energy this season, the organization might see Cowan as a potential Black Ace. He’s showing the organization that he can give them skill and grit when needed.

Cowan’s path to the NHL might still be a next-year thing. However, based on his development, he’s undoubtedly a player Maple Leafs fans should watch. How much fun would it be to see him make his NHL debut this season as the team prepares for their postseason journey?

He’s a young talent on the rise.