Cowan Has Proven He Belongs in the NHL

At just 20 years old, Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan has already shown he belongs at the NHL level. In just 10 games, the rookie has demonstrated that his skating ability and skill set are ready to compete with top players. While his game still requires refinement, it's clear he is an NHL-caliber player.

Finding His Fit in the Top-Six

Unlike others who have auditioned for the role (like Max Domi), Cowan has proven he possesses the hockey IQ to play on one of the Leafs’ top two lines. He has already managed to create chemistry with both Auston Matthews and John Tavares, filling a major void for the team early this season.

Unfortunately, his box-score production hasn't been at the level some had hoped, with just one goal and three assists so far. It felt clear, however, that the production would eventually come. That is why many fans had questions when, at today's practice, Cowan once again found himself on the outside looking in.

Berube's Baffling Roster Moves

At practice today, both Cowan and Sammy Blais—who has been a breath of fresh air in the bottom six—found themselves in the "scratch" gray jerseys. These continual lineup changes by head coach Craig Berube continue to bewilder the fan base. While it makes sense to alter the roster due to injury, and the imminent return of Scott Laughton and Steven Lorentz necessitates changes, this specific move is questionable.

Play Him or Send Him Down: Consistency is Key

In my opinion, making a move involving Cowan doesn't make sense. At this point, the team must either play him or send him to the American Hockey League (AHL) where he can get regular reps.

At just 20 years old, the most important aspect of his development is ice time. While observing from the press box may be beneficial occasionally, taking him out of the lineup when he's truly finding his game seems more disruptive than productive.

With the team's slow start and desperate need for secondary scoring, management needs to find consistency or make a trade sooner rather than later. Most importantly, the Leafs need to find out exactly what Easton Cowan is and what he isn't as quickly as possible. Benching him helps no one.