Maple Leafs' opening night roster decision could send confusing message

Craig Berube made a surprising decision by leaving prospect Easton Cowan off the Toronto Maple Leafs' opening roster in favor of two recent waiver claims.

The players who made the roster were former Montreal Canadiens players Sammy Blais (LW) and Cayden Primeau (G). Cowan, 20, will not start the season with Toronto despite his performance in training camp and praise from Berube himself.

After the final preseason game against Detroit, Berube said Cowan had already "shown enough that he is ready," praising his IQ and work. The forward is now expected to log minutes with the Toronto Marlies in the AHL, instead of sitting on the bench with the Maple Leafs.

Toronto's opening night roster is as follows:

Forwards:

• Sammy Blais
• Max Domi
• Calle Jarnkrok
• Dakota Joshua
• Matthew Knies
• Steven Lorentz
• Matias Maccelli
• Auston Matthews
• Bobby McMann
• William Nylander
• Jacob Quillan
• Nicholas Robertson
• Nicolas Roy
• John Tavares  

Defense:

• Simon Benoit
• Brandon Carlo
• Oliver Ekman-Larsson
• Jake McCabe
• Philippe Myers
• Morgan Rielly
• Chris Tanev

Goaltenders:

• Cayden Primeau
• Anthony Stolarz

Why Easton Cowan should be on the Maple Leafs' opening night roster

Cowan demonstrated his motor, high IQ, and constant pressure during the preseason, which is what Berube says he prioritizes in his players. If the plan is based on pace and forecheck, the 20-year-old already fits that archetype.

Keeping him in the NHL, even with limited minutes, would accelerate his adaptation to the elite competitive pace, without risking his confidence. The "on-site learning" is as valuable as minutes in the AHL, especially for a player who showed the reading ability and responsibility that Cowan did.

The recent injury to Scott Laughton and Max Domi's move to the first line should not affect Cowan if a third or fourth line prioritizing recovery and transition is sought. His pressure profile could benefit Nicolas Roy and Steven Lorentz defensively, with support from a veteran like Calle Jarnkrok.

Also, Cowan has a recovery and extra-pass profile that would increase attempts from the low slot versus the perimeter, improving the xGF of the third/fourth trio without constant carry-ins. This characteristic would open up lines and convert chaotic possessions into dangerous attempts.

Toronto is sending a message that it prioritizes waiver claims over training camp performance, which could be counterproductive for young players who earned their place.