Unfortunately, Maple Leafs Right wing will probably not make the official squad.

Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan is facing the likelihood of not making the official roster this season and is expected to return to Junior hockey.

The NHL training camp can be a challenging environment, especially for young players. The intensity and competition are often much higher than what they are used to, making it a daunting experience to skate alongside established NHL veterans. Unfortunately, this can lead to significant disappointment, as many players are cut from the roster by the end of camp. While some are sent to the AHL, the majority usually find themselves returning to their previous teams.

In Toronto, the stakes are particularly high. Young athletes must compete against NHL superstars like Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and John Tavares, all while managing the pressure of the media. The Maple Leafs are currently focused on winning rather than player development, placing younger players at a distinct disadvantage. Nevertheless, some have been able to make an impression, and Cowan is among them. As the 28th overall pick in the 2023 draft, he has demonstrated his ability to play effectively alongside seasoned professionals.

However, with a well-rounded lineup, it is likely that head coach Craig Berube will lean towards players with more NHL experience. If Cowan were to secure a spot on the roster, he might find himself with limited ice time, which would impede his growth. After an impressive season in the OHL, the AHL would have been the ideal next step, but a specific rule complicates this situation.

Though players can technically join the AHL at 18, a rule affecting CHL players dictates that 18- and 19-year-olds must return to their junior teams if they do not make the NHL roster. Thus, Cowan, who is 19, will need to head back to the London Knights if he isn’t retained by the Maple Leafs.

Cowan’s previous season showcased his readiness for greater challenges, as he scored 96 points in 54 games, leading his team to an OHL Championship and earning playoff MVP honors with 34 points in 18 games. He has one more chance to impress the Leafs’ management during their pre-season opener against the Ottawa Senators. However, even a stellar performance may not be enough to secure a spot in the regular-season lineup.

The decision ahead is clear: Cowan can either join the Leafs, where he might play a minimal role, or return to the OHL to assist the Knights in their pursuit of back-to-back championships.