NHL: Preseason-Ottawa Senators at Toronto Maple Leafs (image credit: IMAGN)
Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan has been under scrutiny for his disappointing play for Team Canada at the World Junior Hockey Championships. The 28th overall pick in the 2023 NHL draft registered just three points (one goal, two assists) in five games. This comes after managing just two points (one goal, one assist) in the 2023-24 World Juniors.
Cowan's lack of production combined with back-to-back quarterfinal exits courtesy of Team Czechia has Canadian fans voicing their frustrations. It's rare to see Team Canada finish fifth in the WJC, let alone consecutive years without an opportunity for a medal.
Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman was on the "FAN590" radio station on Friday and made his feelings known about Cowan after Canada's tournament exit.
"I know Cowan really struggled the last couple of weeks, but I think you’re insane if you’re giving up on this kid based on two bad weeks," Friedman said, via Leafslatest. "I see people saying, oh, they should trade him. Number one, his value will never be lower than it is now. And number two, I think it’s bananas to give up on someone you really think highly of based on two bad weeks."
