Toronto hockey fans are buzzing with anticipation as a new chapter unfolds for one of the Maple Leafs’ most exciting prospects, Easton Cowan.

After a standout season in the OHL and a pre-season that turned heads, Cowan’s name is suddenly at the center of speculation, with insiders hinting at a dramatic shakeup in the team’s lineup.

The Maple Leafs have long been searching for fresh energy and game-changing talent, and Cowan’s recent performances have sparked conversations that go far beyond typical rookie hype.

As the organization faces a crowded roster and high-priced veterans vying for ice time, rumors swirl about who will make the cut—and who could be on the move.

Will Cowan’s meteoric rise force a surprising veteran out of the lineup? Could this be the beginning of a bold new era in Toronto, or just another twist in the team’s quest for the Stanley Cup?

With more practices ahead and final decisions looming, the suspense is palpable. The full story behind Cowan’s ascent, the fate of his veteran competitors, and what it all means for the Maple Leafs’ season is about to be revealed. Stay tuned—this is a roster battle you won’t want to miss.

Easton Cowan of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Photo credit: Daily Faceoff

Easton Cowan’s future in Toronto is bright, and now, it appears the former OHL superstar has earned his way onto the opening night roster.

Easton Cowan has long been the Toronto Maple Leafs biggest prospect, and heading into the 2025/26 off-season, many were hoping that he’d earn a way onto the roster for the upcoming campaign as the Maple Leafs once again continue their pursuit of a Stanley Cup.

This comes on the back of an OHL season in which he put up 29 goals and 69 points in 46 games played for the London Knights, and now, all signs are pointing towards an NHL debut this season after a very impressive pre-season.

Easton Cowan Appears to Win Fourth-Line Job, Beating Out Calle Jarnkrok and David Kampf

While it hasn’t been the most dominant pre-season performance, Craig Berube is clearly impressed with the 20-year old, as it has been reported that he’s on the fourth-line in the Maple Leafs first ‘NHL only’ practice lineup this season, beating out the likes of David Kampf, Calle Jarnkrok and Nick Robertson.

Jarnkrok in particular is on a four-year contract worth $8.4 million. David Kampf is even worse, on an $9.6 million deal.

As mentioned all summer long, the Maple Leafs have a major logjam up front heading into the new season, as evidenced by the fact that they’ve got four players on an NHL only ‘fifth line’, with many fans and people in the organization hoping that Cowan could steal a roster spot ahead of some veterans.

While it’s not guaranteed yet, as there are still many practices to go before the regular season, it appears as though he’s done that, and given the raw talent and the promise that Cowan has been showing for quite some time, having him make the roster on opening night would be a great move for the Maple Leafs.