Toronto Maple Leafs forward Easton Cowan has impressed teammate Gavin McKenna with his development and ability to handle difficult matchups. The young forward has earned greater responsibility while contributing offensively and maintaining his defensive discipline.
Speaking to reporters Monday morning ahead of Toronto’s game against the Calgary Flames, McKenna praised Cowan’s progress. He highlighted the challenge of facing opposing teams’ top lines while continuing to produce points.
“For him to go against first lines every night while still putting up points and not getting caught out defensively is very impressive,” McKenna said.
“The jump he’s made from last year has been unbelievable to watch,” he added.
MORE: Auston Matthews explains why Maple Leafs’ locker room is ‘so much fun’ right now
Gavin McKenna on Easton Cowan’s development & playing against other team’s top lines 👏💙
— Leafslatest (@Leafslatest) October 26, 2026
“For him to go against first lines every night while still putting up points and not getting caught out defensively is very impressive. The jump he’s made from last year has been… pic.twitter.com/z8MjTIP7yg
So far Cowan has registered 12 points in 13 games, which includes 5 goals while playing just over 15 minutes. If we compare this number to his performance last season, he is just 6 goals and 17 points short.
McKenna also pointed to Cowan’s growing confidence as an important part of his development. The two players share a close friendship, making Cowan’s progress particularly rewarding for McKenna.
“He’s playing with a lot of confidence right now, and how could you not when you’re playing like that?” McKenna said. “He’s one of my best buddies, so it’s great to see.”
Easton Cowan embraces defensive responsibility
Cowan has also welcomed the challenge of matching up against opposing teams’ leading forwards. Rather than viewing those assignments as a burden, the Maple Leafs forward sees them as an opportunity to create offense through responsible defensive play.
“I like playing against other teams’ top lines,” Cowan said. “It’s fun. It brings intensity, and if you have good defense, it can lead to offense.”
His approach reflects the importance of playing a complete game at the NHL level. Limiting dangerous chances while winning puck battles can create opportunities for Toronto to transition quickly.
“So I’m just trying to be simple, get pucks, and let the defense lead to offense,” Cowan explained. “That’s kind of what I’ve been living by, so just trying to keep that going.”
Easton Cowan on the responsibility of playing against teams’ top lines:
— Leafslatest (@Leafslatest) October 26, 2026
“I like playing against other teams’ top lines. It’s fun. It brings intensity, and if you have good defense, it can lead to offense.
So I’m just trying to be simple, get pucks, and let the defense lead to… pic.twitter.com/VC2u4afl40
MORE: Leon Draisaitl admits Oilers’ defensive details have ‘slipped’ after loss to Maple Leafs
For Toronto, Cowan’s development offers encouraging signs. His ability to contribute at both ends could make him an increasingly valuable part of the team’s long-term plans.
McKenna’s praise also highlights the confidence Cowan has earned from those around him. If he maintains this balance, he could continue growing into a dependable contributor for the Maple Leafs.
—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —