Why the Maple Leafs should resist the temptation to deal Easton Cowan at the trade deadline
If there was any doubt heading into the season, the previous three months have proven it: Easton Cowan is the best prospect in the Toronto Maple Leafs organisation.
The 18-year-old London Knights forward is now on a 29-game point run, the longest in the CHL this season, and is tied for the OHL lead in points per game (1.77).
Cowan may have been a surprising first-round choice in 2023. But, thinking back (as recent as it was and as much as things may change), it’s difficult to picture him being available as the 28th choice in a re-draft.
This season, he’s gained major professional qualities: His superb skating has helped him establish himself as a 200-foot player with toughness, great penalty killing, and a high hockey IQ.
His point run and considerable improvements have made him an attractive NHL trade asset. And some argue that the best moment to sell an item is when its value is at its peak.
But does this indicate that the Leafs should trade him this week?
Cowan’s worth may continue to rise. Moving him for the type of player that often returns at the trade deadline – a supplemental piece with limited duration, if any – would not only short-change Cowan’s potential, but would also be damaging to the Leafs in the long run.
“Everyone can speak about skill or offensive awareness, but I think his resolve to play the correct way, even if he doesn’t have a point, has stood out. He believes that when a play emerges, it is up to him to make it,” Knights assistant coach Dylan Hunter said.
Cowan is gaining as much professional experience as he can in London via the CHL. This might assist smooth and possibly hasten his transfer to the Leafs, making him more valuable to the organisation. Dale Hunter, his head coach, has over 1,400 NHL games of experience and is no stranger to playing the hard-nosed game that Brad Treliving expects from his players. Cowan plays in one of the CHL’s biggest
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