Easton Cowan Given Special Maple Leafs Assignment Ahead of Training Camp

The Toronto Maple Leafs are eyeing Easton Cowan for a bigger role, expressing his potential at winning a roster spot in the NHL out of training camp.

Speaking to reports, Leafs assistant general manager Hayley Wickenheiser mentioned that Easton Cowan could be in line for making the big team, but will need to prove himself as ready for the top level.

Throughout the offseason, Cowan will be given the chance to not only show he is NHL-ready in terms of talent, but can handle the league's physicality and intensity as a rookie.

Ultimately, what will be gained for Easton Cowan's chance to make the pros is unlikely to come from development camp, but what he does against men in the preseason and if he can prove himself alongside the Leafs main roster.

Toronto has added forward depth that includes Travis Boyd and Vinni Lettieri that can contend for spots at the end of the lineup and push Cowan to the minors.

Cowan could be a potential dark horse candidate for the Leafs top-six to replace Mitch Marner on offense if the team fails to find a veteran replacement, looking to do so by trade.

A scenario in which Cowan not only makes the Leafs but is ultimately a top-six forward year one is an unlikely scenario, but something the Leafs are hoping can ultimately come to fruition in the future given he's proven his offensive prowess in the OHL.

Toronto has acquired forward Matias Maccelli as a potential offensive replacement, hoping for him to rebound after his points total decreased from 57 to 18, looking to be a bounce-back candidate in a offense-heavy Leafs top-six.

The Leafs are still looking for alternative fits to add to the top of the roster, including as an option former Leaf forward Nazem Kadri.

Although Easton Cowan is a long-term top-six option, the hope is that he can find his offense quickly and manage to be a key contributor sooner rather than later, as was the case for Matthew Knies.

Next season will be about putting together the right team that can be a contender all the way with a new identity, with the potential of the new-look Toronto Maple Leafs having a fresh new face in their top rookie Easton Cowan ready to go in the team's lineup.