Easton Cowan, the Toronto Maple Leafs' top prospect, is poised to begin his professional hockey career, and his deployment this season is a major talking point. After the departure of Mitch Marner, there is an opening among the top six forwards, which presents an opportunity for Cowan.

Cowan's journey to this point has been impressive. Drafted 28th overall in 2023, a pick that initially surprised many, he has since dominated junior hockey. In 2024, he was named the OHL's Most Valuable Player and led the London Knights to the Memorial Cup final. In 2025, he was named the OHL Playoff MVP for the second time and led the Knights to victory in the Memorial Cup. He also earned the Stafford Smythe Memorial Trophy as Memorial Cup most valuable player. TSN analyst Craig Button believes Cowan possesses a "burning desire" that the Leafs need and expects him to play with the team this season.

However, the Maple Leafs have a decision to make. General Manager Brad Treliving must consider the need for a top-six forward against Cowan's potential as a long-term fixture in the lineup. According to Cowan, whether he lands a spot with the Maple Leafs "is up to me".

Several factors will influence where Cowan ends up playing. His performance during training camp will be crucial. He will be competing against players like Nick Robertson, and others for a roster spot. The Leafs may also be in the market for a top-six forward, which could impact Cowan's position in the depth chart.

There are several possible scenarios for Cowan's deployment:

• NHL Roster: Cowan could crack the opening night roster if he truly stands out in training camp. He has the potential to fill the void left by Marner or compete for a spot on a line with John Tavares and William Nylander. Cowan can play both sides, increasing his versatility.
• AHL Development: While Cowan is certain he will be in Toronto this year, he may start with the Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League (AHL). This would allow him to further develop his skills and adjust to the professional game. However, he was not eligible for AHL play until he turned 20.
• Continued Junior Development: Another year in the OHL with the London Knights is a possibility. This would provide him with more seasoning before making the jump to the NHL.

Regardless of where he plays, the Maple Leafs are taking a patient approach to Cowan's development. Assistant General Manager Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser said that Cowan will be given time to train off the ice, gain weight, and rest. Cowan's focus this offseason is on adding weight and strength to prepare for the rigors of NHL competition, with a goal of reaching 190 pounds by training camp.

Cowan's strengths include his offensive skills, defensive awareness, speed, hockey IQ, and competitiveness. He is a two-way player who can kill penalties and drive transitions. However, his defensive game still needs refinement for the NHL.

Ultimately, Easton Cowan's performance in the upcoming months will determine how the Maple Leafs deploy him this season. His versatility, determination, and potential make him an important part of the team's future.