GOOD SIGNING: Just In The Toronto Maple Leafs Have Made It Tougher With A Talented Player To The NHL…. 

The Toronto Maple Leafs have recently made several strategic moves to enhance their NHL roster. They have re-signed promising young forward Nick Robertson, added veteran forward Max Pacioretty on a professional tryout (PTO), and confirmed the signing of defenseman Jani Hakanpaa.

These additions are expected to strengthen their forward lineup but have also created new challenges for one of their top prospects, Easton Cowan.

Cowan, who had an impressive 2023-24 season with the OHL’s London Knights, scored 96 points (34 goals, 62 assists) in 54 games and played a crucial role in the Knights’ OHL championship and Memorial Cup Final run, amassing 34 points (10 goals, 24 assists) in 18 playoff games.

Despite his outstanding performance, the Maple Leafs’ recent acquisitions may complicate his path to making the NHL roster.

According to Chris Johnston on Sports Center with Jay Onrait, the increased competition within the team has made it more difficult for Cowan to secure a spot.

With more experienced players joining the roster and limited space available, Cowan faces a tougher battle to make the team.

The Maple Leafs did not significantly alter their roster during the offseason to create more space, although there were speculations about a potential trade involving Mitch Marner, which ultimately did not materialize.

Pacioretty, who joined on a PTO, is expected to sign a full contract before the season begins. Additionally, Stanley Cup champion Steven Lorentz will also join the team on a PTO, adding further competition for roster spots.

Johnston notes that the situation is reminiscent of last year’s training camp, where Fraser Minten, another promising prospect, faced a similar challenge.

Minten had a strong camp but was eventually sent back to his junior team after the Leafs traded Sam Lafferty to the Vancouver Canucks to create a roster spot. Although Minten’s NHL stint was brief, he eventually secured a role with the team.

Cowan will need to demonstrate his value and fight hard for his place in the lineup. If he is unable to secure a spot with the Maple Leafs, he will return to the Knights and continue his development in the OHL.