It’s all part of the game; you just have to get back up. I’ve been putting in a lot of effort and I’m focused on maintaining that intensity while playing hard hockey.”
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In the matchup between the Nashville Predators and the Toronto Maple Leafs, rookie Easton Cowan is now part of the Leafs’ lineup, and it’s crucial for his veteran teammates to support him.
After any physical confrontation, it’s natural for attention to shift towards Cowan, especially as he faces off against larger, seasoned NHL players who may see him as an easy target.
Cowan plays a vital role on Toronto’s first line, and the competition will challenge his transition from junior hockey to the NHL without any time in the AHL.
“He may be on the smaller side (just under six feet, depending on who you ask), but he’s not afraid to go into tough situations,” said Auston Matthews on Thursday morning before the game against the New York Rangers. “He took a few cheap shots during Tuesday’s 7-4 victory over Nashville, but he’s surprisingly stronger than he appears.”
Ozzy Wiesblatt of the Predators collided with Cowan, sending him into Leafs goalie Cayden Primeau’s unforgiving post, but Cowan quickly brushed himself off.
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Some anticipated that the Leafs would take a more aggressive stance in response to the incident involving Wiesblatt, which led to an interference penalty for Nashville. Coach Craig Berube commended Cowan and his teammates for their restraint.
“They’ll figure it out and handle whatever comes their way,” Berube stated. “At the same time, we got a power play out of it, so you can’t retaliate with a minor penalty. The power play needs to capitalize on that opportunity. Staying disciplined is key.
“Every situation is unique, but I’m confident our team will support one another, just as they did last year.”