Maple Leafs HC Craig Berube defends controversial roster decision

The Toronto Maple Leafs started the 2025-26 season well, with a 5-2 victory against the Montreal Canadiens, but with some controversial roster decisions in between.

Craig Berube left Easton Cowan off the main roster, despite the prospect's good performance during training camp.

After Friday's practice, Berube gave a bold update on the 20-year-old Cowan, stating the team comes before any individual, and that if the team wins, changes aren't needed.

"Team’s first. And I love Cowan. We all do. He’s going to be a good Leaf, I’ll tell you that," Berube said. "He’s going to be a good hockey player, and he is a good hockey player. But the team is the most important thing, and we gotta make decisions. And they don’t always please everybody."

Easton Cowan being on Maple Leafs' main roster wouldn't hurt Toronto

Cowan wouldn't do any harm to Toronto by being part of the main roster. On the contrary. The young forward has a profile that would offer an immediate fit for the team.

He has a high motor and a competitive IQ; he can sustain pressure without needing immediate production. Given about 10 minutes per game, he could contribute to forecheck, puck recovery and energy after conceded goals.

Furthermore, he is a versatile player. Cowan could enter as a right or left winger on the third or fourth lines and in six-on-five rotations or game closures to hunt for mistakes, without touching the top six.

The forward would add speed in transitions and controlled entries to Berube's team. Something that could be useful against teams that fall back in the neutral zone. Cowan could offer a high-energy shift after a failed power play, which would change the momentum without the risk of disrupting the main combinations.

Of course, the AHL will keep him in shape, but he is Toronto's top prospect. Controlled minutes with veteran NHL teammates could be as or more beneficial than more playing time in a lesser league, accelerating his learning without exposing him to tough mismatches.

Berube has the final say, but Cowan represented, or represents, a clear opportunity for the Maple Leafs to begin promoting home-developed talent.