Easton Cowan Impresses Craig Berube, and Fans Are Making Their Voices Heard

The 20-year-old Cowan made his NHL debut for Toronto in a 4-3 loss against the Detroit Red Wings, but with the rookie making a name for himself in his first game.

On the right wing in lieu of Matias Maccelli, Cowan looked like a mature forward who could stick in the Leafs lineup, and even on the top line next to Matthews.

Cowan's game was enough to impress Leafs head coach Craig Berube, who was impressed by the youngster, complimenting his intelligence and poise in his first NHL appearance.

Although nothing is finalized, as evident by Cowan not finishing the game on the first line, it's still a positive one that could be forceful in having him play everyday, and avoid being sent down to the minors.

With Cowan having eight more games left to go until his entry-level deal kicks into its first year, the Leafs will have to make a difficult choice to decide by then just how ready their young forward is.

After a strong start to his season so far, Leafs fans are echoing their past responses from the preseason, Easton Cowan belongs on this roster.

Having showcased his ability to play in the Leafs lineup during the preseason with the projected fourth line of Steven Lorentz and Scott Laughton, the sudden injury to Laughton changed the course for the rookie, but didn't keep Cowan off the Leafs roster.

Having done well with the end of the lineup, Cowan is now getting to show what he can do with the Leafs top-line, and succeeding, and it may be further proof of Cowan being ready to be an NHLer.

Fans have taken Cowan's performance as a positive one, and a strong example of the talent level he has as a player, as well as the maturity he possesses to put himself as potentially NHL caliber, and top-six caliber at that.

Not only do some fans want Cowan to stick on the Leafs, but are hoping for him to continue with Matthews and Knies and for the trio to continue to be something the team tries out.

Despite the Leafs first line trio doing well, it wasn't one that Craig Berube stuck to, moving Cowan off the line late and bumping up William Nylander, a decision that proved costly as that trio was on the ice for the goal that lost them the game.

With the Knies/Matthews lines needing a true playmaking option who can provide some intensity and add the creative punch the line is lacking, Easton Cowan could be the surprise fit the Toronto Maple Leafs we're waiting for in order to win.