Referees Failing the Leafs Early and Often: Another Obvious Penalty Goes Uncalled in Toronto

Easton Cowan's first few games in the NHL have been quite eventful, and for the second straight game, the rookie forward was the recipient of a brutal infraction from the opposition.

Last game, it was a dangerous play by Predators forward Ozzy Wiesblatt, who shoved Cowan into his own goal post during a puck race. On Thursday, it was a stiff high-stick to the face from Rangers defenseman Matthew Robertson.

As evidenced by the clip below, Cowan was clearly high-sticked by the Rangers defenseman in open ice. Shockingly, the none of the officials made the call, despite Cowan dropping to the ice in clear distress, holding his face, and sporting a large red mark on his face.

Normally, you'd want to give the officials the benefit of the doubt, as the game is faster than ever, but when you consider that the Leafs currently rank dead last in power play opportunities this season, it's becoming very apparent that Craig Berube's crew won't be getting as many calls in their favour as they may deserve this season.

Speaking of Berube, the Leafs' bench boss was visibly unhappy with the non-call -- and he made sure the officials knew it, gesturing to them and demanding that they make the call. Unfortunately, it was to no avail.

The most frustrating part about these types of occurrences is that they seem so obvious to everyone but the officials on the ice. The Leafs also don't seem to get away with much when the shoe is on the other foot.

As for the 20-year-old Cowan, he was okay and would remain in the game, not allowing the swelling to disrupt his game in any way.

Now playing in his third NHL game, all on the top line, Cowan has quickly become a fan favourite, earning praise for his tremendous body of work on the ice, and also bonding well with his teammates off the ice.

Cowan was recently the target of a playful prank from his teammates, who are doing their best to make the rookie feel right at home in his first taste of NHL action.