Craig Berube defuses concerns over scratching Easton Cowan
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton Imagn Images
Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube has responded to concerns over Easton Cowan's extended absence from game action in an important developmental year.
Back in action following the Christmas break on Saturday, the Leafs play host the Ottawa Senators for the first meeting between the two Ontario rivals this season.
Leafs To Roll With Same Forward Group From Win Over Pittsburgh
Craig Berube didn't make any changes to his forward group when the Leafs took to the ice for their morning skate on Saturday, meaning 20-year-old rookie Easton Cowan will watch from the press box once again.
For a team needing to string together some wins in the worst way, it makes sense to go with what worked. The only changes for the Leafs come on the back end and on the power play, where Matias Maccelli will get an opportunity on the top unit under new assistant coach Steve Sullivan.
Concerns Rising Over the Lack of Playing Time For Easton Cowan
After being scratched for the final two games before the break, fans were concerned about the development of Cowan, as long absences from the lineup and limited game reps will certainly hinder his development.
This is currently the third separate occasion Cowan has found himself scratched in favour of veteran forwards. When the former first-round pick was scratched earlier this year, Berube called it a 'reset', given how much the youngster had played and the mistakes he had begun making at the time.
Berube Defuses Concerns About Cowan Sitting For Too Long
This time around, Berube made no such comment, but assured the media on Saturday that it had nothing to with Cowan's play and that he will be back in the lineup sooner than later.
"The conversations with him (have been) we won last game, just be patient. But we definitely do not want him sitting out too long. That's not good for his growth. I think he helps us. I think he's a good player and he's only gonna get better."
Through 26 games in his rookie season, Cowan has amassed 4 goals and 11 points, but has shown he can bring a consistent level of play wherever Berube places him, regardless of his amount of ice-time.
With the Leafs playing again on Sunday, it's logical to assume that he -- and possibly Calle Jarnkrok draw into the lineup to give the team some fresh legs against the high-flying Red Wings.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 27 | 460 ANSWERS Craig Berube defuses concerns over scratching Easton Cowan Should the Leafs send Cowan down to let him play a more prominent role with the Marlies? | ||
| If he continues to be scratched, yes | 307 | 66.7 % |
| No, just get him back into the lineup | 153 | 33.3 % |
| List of polls | ||