Here's what the Leafs are getting in 18-year-old London Knights forward, Easton Cowan
The Leafs used the 28th overall selection to surprise everyone and draft Easton Cowan from the London Knights. Almost all scouting services had him ranked well outside the first round, but clearly the Leafs were impressed with the 5'10, 170 pound centerman after seeing his performance at the draft combine. His interview with the Leafs, in Cowan's mind, went very well, but even he was surprised by the pick.
Additionally, yesterday's pick was the only pick the Leafs have in the first 4 rounds, so while many had Cowan ranked much lower, when the Leafs were unable to trade down to get an extra pick or two, they had little to no choice but to reach on the 18-year-old buzzsaw if he was the guy they really wanted.
For those questioning the pick, and I'm sure there are many, here are some highlights of Easton Cowan so you can see exactly what the Leafs are getting.
Cowan was the draft combine's top finisher in terms of pro agility. He also ranked #1 in his entire draft class for competitiveness by Upside Hockey. Elite Prospects' Mitchell Brown also points to Cowan as having "1st round intelligence".
He certainly isn't the biggest guy, but he is tenacious on the puck, plays a 200-foot game and is a very good skater, who is able to generate a lot of speed. After registering 53 points in 68 games last season, Cowan exploded onto the scene in the playoffs, recording 21 points in 20 playoff games.
All signs point to the Leafs getting a good one in Cowan, even if the pick may have been a bit of a reach.
