No. 3: Easton Cowan
Despite having one of the best names in hockey and being invited to the Gravenhurst trip this week, Cowan is likely going to be sent back to junior to try to win a Memorial Cup with the London Knights.
Cowan, who was the Toronto Maple Leafs first-round pick during the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, has continued to be a workhouse every time he steps on the ice. He’s clearly playing like a 18-year-old, in a good way, because his energy levels are through the roof and he goes after every loose puck there is.
With three points, including one goal, Toronto’s first-round selection (28th overall) in the 2023 NHL Draft, Cowan has impressed the Leafs with his ability to hound pucks and high-energy style of play.
Despite that, he still isn’t likely to make a team that considers itself a Cup Contender as an 18 year old.
So, with all that being said, look for these to potentially be the lines when the 2023-24 season opens next week (if healthy).
Forwards:
Tyler Bertuzzi – Auston Matthews – Mitch Marner
Max Domi – John Tavares – Calle Jarnkrok
Matthew Knies – William Nylander – Sam Lafferty
Noah Gregor – David Kampf – Ryan Reaves
Defenseman:
Morgan Rielly – TJ Brodie
Jake McCabe – John Klingberg
Mark Giordano – Timothy Liljegren
Goalies:
Ilya Samsonov
Joseph Woll
Let’s play that hockey!