Easton Cowan Paired With Intriguing Linemate for Maple Leafs' Upcoming Tournament

Easton Cowan is brimming with confidence ahead of his 3rd NHL training camp, and if that confidence can translate to success during camp and the pre-season, we could very well be witnessing his NHL debut on opening night next month.

Cowan recently revealed what his mindset is ahead of what will be a highly competitive training camp in Toronto, and while we don't yet know who he'll be playing with to start the pre-season, we do know who he's going to start the rookie tournament with: Marlies pivot and former NCAA standout, Jacob Quillan.

TSN's Mark Masters was present to take in the Leafs' morning sessions today, and confirmed via a pair of social media posts that Quillan and Cowan were indeed playing together.

Before Cowan left the ice, he did have a chance to work with fellow top prospect Ben Danford, who fed him some passes while the Mount Brydges, Ontario native wound up for some one-timers.

Quillan is one of the players in Toronto whom many are wondering about in terms of his potential NHL readiness. Putting him with Cowan, the Leafs' star rookie, certainly bodes well for how the organization views him. This could end up being a productive duo for the Leafs one day.

If Cowan does fail to make the NHL this season, he'll begin his professional career with the Marlies, and it wouldn't be shocking if placing these two young stars together was a way of allowing them to build some chemistry just in case the organization has plans on playing them together with the Marlies.

Cowan is coming off of an exceptional playoff run with the London Knights, capturing an OHL championship, a Memorial Cup, and Playoff MVP honours for his efforts.