Toronto Maple Leafs sophomore Easton Cowan was on a line with Nick Paul and Colton Sissons at training camp today and got some hefty praise from coach Jim Hiller.
In his rookie season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Easton Cowan played 66 games, notching 11 goals and 18 assists for 29 points. Overall, it was a frustrating rookie season, especially as head coach Craig Berube's offensive schematics did not spark much confidence.
This season, however, Cowan and the Leafs have a new head coach in Jim Hiller, who is better known for his offense. Cowan could benefit greatly from this, and during the first day of training camp, the sophomore showed his head coach something special.
Easton Cowan impresses Jim Hiller
While speaking to the media, Hiller revealed that the player who jumped out to him the most this morning was Easton Cowan. He felt as though Cowan did an excellent job of being all over the ice and getting into the dirty areas.
He did all of this while playing on the third line with Nick Paul and Colton Sissons. This is going to be an interesting third line, especially given Paul and Cowan's nose for offense.
Who was the player that just jumped out at you in this morning's session? For me, it would be Easton Cowan. He made some plays with the puck, but he was a puck hound. He was everywhere.
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Hiller's comments should make Leafs fans very happy. This points to the notion that this season could be a lot better for Cowan, who was plagued by inconsistency in 2025-26.
Don't get too excited about Cowan too fast
Cowan is still a young player, so it is important that the team and the fans give the kid some time to develop and become his own player.
That said, Cowan was able to get some valuable time in the AHL last season as the Marlies went on to win the Calder Cup. This professional playoff experience could serve Cowan well as he embarks on a new season with the Maple Leafs.
It goes to show that even during bad seasons, there are opportunities for players to grow and get better while also playing some meaningful hockey.
Do you believe this will be a big season for Easton Cowan?
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