Easton Cowan determined to make Toronto Maple Leafs roster in 2025-26

Easton Cowan enters Toronto Maple Leafs training camp with a clear objective: to earn a spot on the NHL roster. After a strong offseason and a Memorial Cup championship with the London Knights, the 20-year-old forward believes he’s ready to take the next step.

Confident in his growth, Cowan is preparing to prove his value and force management into a difficult decision this fall.

Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan determined to earn NHL roster spot after Memorial Cup win

Cowan has made it clear that his mindset is fixed on making the Leafs. Speaking with the Toronto Sun, he said, “My mindset right now is to make the Toronto Maple Leafs. That’s my goal. We’re at an NHL camp and that’s where I’m at until further notice. This is definitely the most confident I’ve ever felt — faster, stronger, bigger. So that’s going to help me out a lot.”He credited his summer training for improving his speed, strength, and size, while also noting that skating with NHL players gave him a sense of belonging in a professional environment.The young forward is coming off a standout junior career capped by a Memorial Cup title with the London Knights. Reflecting on that accomplishment, Cowan added, “I’ve put in the work this summer. Now, it’s just go out there and prove I can play.”

The championship provided him with the feeling that his work at the junior level was complete, and now his focus is entirely on breaking through at the NHL level.

Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan could earn NHL debut with strong training camp

For Cowan, this fall is about making a lasting impression. While he was considered last year, the Leafs ultimately returned him to junior hockey, where he thrived. This season, the decision will likely come down to whether he can outcompete Toronto’s crowded bottom-six forward group or begin his professional career with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies.Analysts have noted that Cowan’s goal should always be to force the Leafs into tough roster choices, even if that means pushing management to consider trades. If he can show the same growth and drive he displayed over the summer, Cowan could make his NHL debut sooner than expected.Easton Cowan’s determination, combined with his steady development and junior success, has positioned him as one of Toronto’s most intriguing prospects heading into camp. Whether he begins the year in the NHL or AHL, the 2025-26 season will be a pivotal one for his career. For now, Cowan is singularly focused on proving he belongs in a Maple Leafs uniform.Also Read: Kevin Rooney returns to New Jersey Devils on professional tryout after career year with Calgary Flames