The Toronto Maple Leafs are going to have plenty of players to keep an eye on during training camp. With the Original Six club shaking up their roster this offseason, it is going to be very fascinating to see what their lines end up being once we get to the regular season.
One specific part of the Maple Leafs' lineup that could have a bit of a different look is their top six. They have spots to fight for, and the possibility of young forward Easton Cowan earning a spot in their top six should not be ruled out because of it.
Cowan is one of the Maple Leafs' most exciting youngsters and created even more optimism about his future in Toronto during this past season. The young forward showed plenty of promise for the Maple Leafs as a rookie in 2025-26, as he posted 11 goals, 18 assists, 29 points, and 72 hits in 66 games. Overall, he gave Toronto a nice mix of secondary offensive production and grit.
With Cowan taking such a good step forward in his development last season, there is certainly an argument to be had about the prospect of him playing in Toronto's top six next season. He could hit a new level with his game if he had the chance to play on a line with Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies. When noting that Cowan is a player who Toronto wants to be a big part of their future, they should not be afraid to give him a real shot in their top six next season.
Cowan is entering this season as a major breakout candidate for the Maple Leafs
As solid as Cowan was last season for the Maple Leafs, it is clear that he is a prime breakout candidate heading into the 2026-27 season. The 2023 first-round pick has a ton of potential, and it would not be surprising in the slightest if he improves his all-around game this campaign now that he has played his first NHL season.
Furthermore, at just 21 years old, there is no question that Cowan has not hit his ceiling yet. He has the tools to emerge as a high-impact forward for the Maple Leafs, and it's precisely why they should give him a real opportunity in their top six this campaign.
It is going to be intriguing to see what Cowan can do during his second NHL season with Toronto. If he ends up playing in their top six, don't be surprised if his offensive totals jump up significantly.
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