Craig Berube backs Easton Cowan to make immediate impact with Toronto Maple Leafs

Easton Cowan ’s impressive preseason performance has turned heads within the Toronto Maple Leafs organization. The 20-year-old forward, who entered training camp as one of the team’s most intriguing young players, is now pushing hard for a spot on the opening night roster. Head coach Craig Berube believes Cowan’s energy, hockey IQ, and all-around play have shown he’s ready to make an immediate NHL impact.


Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube impressed by Easton Cowan’s NHL readiness and preseason performance


Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube expressed strong confidence in Easton Cowan’s NHL readiness after the team’s 6-5 preseason loss to the Detroit Red Wings. Although Cowan didn’t record a point in that game, Berube praised his relentless work ethic and intelligence on the ice. “He’s just constant work and he’s got a high IQ. I like him a lot,” Berube said, noting that the young forward has done enough to merit serious consideration for the final roster.


Cowan, who was named the Memorial Cup MVP, has consistently demonstrated poise and maturity beyond his years throughout training camp. His skating, compete level, and improved physicality have all stood out, making him one of the biggest storylines in Toronto’s preseason. With the Maple Leafs looking to balance experience and youth, Cowan has emerged as a player capable of contributing in multiple roles.

Is Easton Cowan ready for the NHL?

Craig Berube: “I think he is. We got decisions to make, but I think he showed us enough that he is ready. I mean, he's got a motor on him ... Like, he's just constant work & he's got a high IQ. I like him a lot”@TSN_Sports

— Mark Masters (@markhmasters) October 5, 2025

Toronto Maple Leafs roster decisions highlight Easton Cowan’s growing confidence and push for NHL spot


Before the final preseason game, Cowan was expected to begin the season on the fourth line alongside Steven Lorentz and Scott Laughton. However, Laughton’s lower-body injury has forced Berube to reconsider his combinations, leaving open competition for a final roster spot among Cowan, Nick Robertson, David Kampf, and Calle Järnkrok.


Teammate Matthew Knies praised Cowan’s offseason development, noting that he “looks stronger, faster, and more mature” than last year. Cowan himself remains grounded, emphasizing that he’s focused on maintaining consistency and a 200-foot game. “Eventually, they’re going to go in,” he said of his scoring chances.

Matthew Knies on Cowan: "He had a good summer. I could tell he got a lot stronger, a lot faster. He looks a lot more mature of a player. So, yeah, he's been having a great camp & I think he deserves the attention he's getting & the chance to be in the opening night lineup."

— Mark Masters (@markhmasters) October 4, 2025

Even if Cowan begins the year with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies, his preseason performance has left a lasting impression. His combination of work ethic, skill, and two-way awareness positions him as a potential difference-maker for the Maple Leafs, both now and in the near future.


Easton Cowan has shown he belongs in the NHL conversation, earning Craig Berube’s trust and the attention of teammates and fans alike. Whether he starts the season in Toronto or with the Marlies, Cowan’s emergence offers the Maple Leafs a glimpse into a bright, energetic future.


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