Maple Leafs could make unexpected lineup decision that changes things against the Red Wings
Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
If the Toronto Maple Leafs decide to give prospect Easton Cowan a spot in the lineup against the Detroit Red Wings, it could change things on Saturday.
Toronto Maple Leafs forward Easton Cowan was originally a 28th overall pick in 2023.
The former 1st-round pick made the team out of camp, but he hasn't had a chance to make his NHL debut yet.
"Yeah, it's been great. I mean, you're on an NHL team, so it's pretty cool, especially your hometown team," Cowan said after making the Maple Leafs out of camp. "Just enjoying every day and just keep trying to get better each and every day."
That could change soon, depending upon Craig Berube.
Cowan would sit as a healthy scratch during the Maple Leafs' 5-2 win over the Montreal Canadiens
He could slot into the lineup in Saturday's game against the Detroit Red Wings.
He was seen taking the ice on Friday in preparation for todays game against their original six rivals.
He's played on the same line as Max Domi, Dakota Joshua, and Nick Robertson this past week.
There's speculation that he could join the team tonight on the third line in rotation with Nick Robertson or Calle Jarnkrok.
The prospect has also found himself on the special teams units, playing on the 2nd power-play unit, and swapped spots with forward Nick Robertson.
Easton Cowan in the Maple Leafs lineup could change the course of Saturday
If Cowan does end up playing in Saturday's game against the Detroit Red Wings, he could bring in a good crowd of 20-30 people from London, Ontario, who are closer to Detroit, though it's doubtful it could tip the crowd in the Maple Leafs' favor.
He could be a great depth addition in the lineup, giving the team a weapon on the third line.
The former 1st-round pick has been described as a high-energy playmaker who has some grit to his game and needs to add some finesse and muscle to become the projected forward he's meant to be.
"Just watching the way he leads on and off the ice. I mean, he's so dialed in, works hard in the gym, and then on the ice, he's special. I mean, you see the plays he makes, like today in practice. He's looking to the inside, he goes outside like that. So super cool, and just try to learn from him a lot."
Last season with the OHL's London Knights, Cowan scored a total of 69 points (29-40) in 49 games before he'd turn pro this season, joining the Maple Leafs.
He could be the team's wild card tomorrow if he draws into the lineup.
The Red Wings and Maple Leafs play tonight, October 11th, at 7 P.M.
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