Easton Cowan’s flames can lift Maple Leafs – Hockey Writer – Maple Leafs prospects
Last night, the Toronto Maple Leafs lost 3-2 to the Chicago Blackhawks, but if you just looked at the scoreboard, you’d miss the real story. The team played hard. They skated eagerly, fought hard on the boards and led for much of the game.
RELATED: Bruins trade for Frazier Minten adds to list of great trades with Maple Leafs
Much of that spark came from players previously considered to be at the bottom of the lineup – players like Easton Cowan and Nicholas Robertson. In my opinion, both bring an energy that is largely lacking in Toronto.
Looking at these young men, I asked a question that has been on my mind for weeks: Does hunger spread upward? I’m thinking more about Cowan here, who has made a difference in his short time with the Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League (AHL) and missed a lot of opportunities for the big club last night.
Maple Leafs starters: Cowen, Robertson and the edge of despair
Watching a player refuse to lose is contagious. Cowan lost, and so did his team. But you can see it in his game that he refuses to give up. This was his first real playing time from the AHL to the NHL. He plays like a player who has something to prove — and he works hard to prove it every shift.
RELATED: Blackhawks celebrate one-year anniversary with 3-2 win over Maple Leafs.
He brings a palpable sense of urgency to every battle on the boards, every drive into the offensive zone. Robertson is not far behind. I only saw him once, on defense, and he looked a little lost. These youngsters’ spots in the lineup are not guaranteed, and their playing time is a reminder that they have to earn every inch. This advantage can make a team better, but only if it spreads.
The strange thing about spreading energy is that it rarely does so. Cowan’s energy was evident last night, but it didn’t exactly carry the team. The flashes were certainly there, but they weren’t infectious enough to completely ignite the veteran’s core. This is not a knock on veterans. But it’s a natural challenge, integrating a younger, more dynamic force into a team that has yet to shake off its own fears.
The Lost Middle Class: Veterans, the Quiet Fading of Comfort and Responsibility
That’s the problem for the Maple Leafs this season. These veterans, while skilled and experienced, don’t seem to exhibit the passion (urgency) that drives these two young players. There was no lack of effort, but there seemed to be no desperation. The grind of having something to prove doesn’t show in the middle. Without that passion, small mistakes can be magnified, turnovers can persist, and leads (like last night) can slip away in games.
RELATED: Maple Leafs can’t trade their way out of trouble
Head coach Craig Berube’s role here is crucial. He was hired to instill structure and accountability to ensure players at every level are doing the right things. But if a player doesn’t feel like he has something worth fighting for, his tools will be limited. Loud “motivation” can only go so far. At some point, veterans need to pick up the torch or the flames of men like Cowan will burn out and leave no trace.
Coach’s Test: Berube and the Direction of Energy
Berubi’s challenges go beyond teaching systems, although those have seemed missing at times this season. His more important job is to manage the emotional currents. Can coaches create a culture where energy flows both ways? Where does the desperation and enthusiasm of the younger players inspire the older players? It’s a fine line. Push too hard and you risk pushback; stay too soft and the team loses focus.
Last night was an example of what is possible if part of the team embraces that desire. The Maple Leafs (especially Cowan) never gave up. He plays with heart. He was on the ice when the team desperately needed to score but never did. The power play didn’t work as well as it should and they didn’t get enough chances. But the effort—the fire—is there.
RELATED: Maple Leafs Easton Cowan: It’s not dog size
This shows that letting Cowan keep up with the team is a smart move. Robertson also seems to be growing into a meaningful role. He needs more time and space. But for Cowan, this is more than just a development option. This has become necessary because of the momentum he brings. He is the energy carrier this team desperately needs.
