Cowan’s Future: How Leafs’ Trade Plans Could Impact The Rookie

As the Maple Leafs enter November, trade chatter is heating up. Insider Nick Kypreos recently suggested that Toronto’s ability to acquire a scoring winger may be limited by the availability of tradable assets, specifically naming rookie forward Easton Cowan as a player teams will be calling about.

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Kypreos writes:

“…But while the Maple Leafs would ideally like to add a scoring winger, their hands are tied by the fact that they don’t have as many assets to trade that can match other teams. Many teams will come calling for Easton Cowan, which is a non-starter for now.”

The words “a non-starter for now” are key here. Kypreos is suggesting the Leafs aren’t considering a Cowan trade. That doesn’t necessarily mean they never will. The NHL insider suggests Toronto would rather discuss Ben Danford as a more attainable asset, but time will tell when it comes to Cowan’s future.

Jonas Siegel of The Athletic took a look at Cowan’s role on the team, but puts Kypreos’ take into perspective. Cowan has had flashes of promise, however, with the imminent return of Scott Laughton and Steven Lorentz, Cowan has been slated as a healthy scratch. That marks the fourth time in 14 games he’s been left out of the lineup.

Perhaps this is par for the course for a prospect finding his way in the NHL. Having said that, Siegel points out that his ice time is inconsistent and he isn’t yet a lock in the lineup. Maybe a trip to the Toronto Marlies could provide regular minutes, but if the Leafs get desperate for help, how long will they give Cowan to take the next big step?

Right now, Kypreos seems to be suggesting there’s time. Teams may be calling, but the Leafs aren’t entertaining the idea.

Eventually, the club may need to make a decision, especially if struggles to find consistent offense continue.

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