Maple Leafs Teasing Fans and Media With Handling of Easton Cowan and Update After Practice

A healthy scratch for the Leafs' home opener on Wednesday against the Montreal Canadiens, many expect that Easton Cowan will make his NHL debut at some point this weekend with the Leafs playing three games in four days, beginning Saturday against the Detroit Red Wings.

From the comments made by head coach Craig Berube during his appearance on 'Real Kyper & Bourne', as well as how he used Cowan in practice on Friday, it would appear the 2023 first-round pick is going to make his NHL debut very soon.

Cowan was the first member of the Leafs to take the ice ahead of practice on Friday in a white bottom-six jersey and not the usual grey scratches one. That sparked some conversations that Berube may insert him into the lineup for Saturday's game.

However, when the Leafs began line rushes, Cowan was skating as an extra, but in an unusual turn of events, did jump in and take reps on the third line with Max Domi.

Following practice, Leafs head coach Craig Berube did mention that no decision has been made yet on Cowan's debut. At this point, it feels like the Leafs are toying with us to increase the anticipation.

Typically, those that are dubbed the 'extra' skaters at practice don't rotate through line rushes, indicating that Berube is considering inserting the Leafs' top prospect into Saturday's lineup.

After a very strong training camp, Cowan certainly deserves to get into a game or two, but if he isn't going to play, he should be re-assigned to the Toronto Marlies, who begin their season this weekend. That's where he will be playing major minutes, which could greatly aid in his development.