Elliotte Friedman shares unfiltered opinion on Maple Leafs Prospect Easton Cowan after Canada's disappointing quarterfinal exit

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."

Despite Cowan struggling for five games while under immense pressure, it likely won't change Toronto's belief in him.

Easton Cowan will hope to make the Maple Leafs roster for the 2025-26 NHL season

Easton Cowan will return to the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League to finish the 2024-25 season. The Maple Leafs' top prospect has been productive as he has racked up 28 points (15 goals, 13 assists) in 20 games. He is coming off a strong 2023-24 season that saw him finish tied for sixth in point scoring after putting up 96 points (34 goals, 62 assists) in 54 games.

His dominance in the OHL has had Toronto fans excited for the opportunity to have him make the NHL team. They have not seen a lot of young talent burst onto the scene during the prime years of the "core four."

Cowan is expected to be given every opportunity throughout training camp and the preseason to begin the 2025-26 campaign as a Toronto Maple Leaf.