Easton Cowan's rookie season with the Toronto Maple Leafs has been a subject of much discussion and, at times, frustration for fans and analysts alike. After a stellar junior career, the expectations were high for the 2023 first-round pick. However, Cowan's journey this season has been a rollercoaster, marked by periods of promise interspersed with stretches of inconsistency, leading some to question whether the Leafs have maximized his potential in his first year as a professional.

Cowan's impressive performance with the London Knights, including a Memorial Cup win and MVP honors, fueled anticipation for his NHL arrival. He demonstrated flashes of his offensive capabilities during training camp and preseason, contributing two assists and eight shots in five games. Despite the initial optimism, the Maple Leafs' coaching staff opted to start Cowan with the Toronto Marlies of the AHL, a decision aimed at allowing him to further develop his game. This decision drew surprise from fans, especially with other players of similar contract range being chosen over Cowan.

Cowan's NHL debut arrived in October against the Detroit Red Wings. He played over 14 minutes, registered a shot on goal, and showcased an immediate burst of energy. He even earned praise for his chemistry with Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies on the top line, notching his first NHL assist in his second game. However, the early weeks of the season proved to be a learning curve. On November 5, Cowan was sent to the AHL to make room for Scott Laughton's return from injury. After a brief stint with the Marlies, where he recorded an assist in two games, he was recalled to the Leafs and began to find his rhythm.

In late November, Cowan demonstrated his potential by scoring goals and adding assists in consecutive games. He tallied a late equalizer against the Columbus Blue Jackets and a one-timer goal off a pass from William Nylander against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Despite playing limited minutes in the bottom six, Cowan found ways to impact the game. December and early January presented a challenge, as he endured an eight-game goal drought. However, his work ethic remained consistent, contributing hits, blocked shots, and responsible two-way play, earning the trust of his coach.

More recently, Cowan has shown signs of resurgence, scoring his first career game-winning goal in overtime against the Philadelphia Flyers on January 9. Skating on the third line with Nicolas Roy and Nicholas Robertson, he has found a structured role that allows him to create opportunities without added pressure. He has also been given opportunities on the second power-play unit, signaling confidence from the coaching staff.

While Cowan has shown promise, some argue that his development has been stifled by inconsistent linemates and a lack of consistent opportunities in offensive situations. Others would contend that the Leafs are right to be patient with Cowan's development. Some believe that Cowan's current role on the fourth line limits his offensive freedom compared to the opportunities he had earlier in the season when playing alongside John Tavares and William Nylander. Coach Craig Berube called sitting Cowan out against the Canucks a "reset". The Maple Leafs prioritize structure, influencing where a player like Cowan fits in.