Overview

• Head coach Craig Berube said Cowan has shown enough to play in the NHL, while noting final roster decisions are still to come.
• Cowan skated in five of six preseason games and played 19:10 in the finale against Detroit, the third-most among Toronto forwards.
• He finished the preseason without a goal but drew praise for his motor, defensive detail and hockey IQ, with teammates citing added strength and speed.
• Scott Laughton is week-to-week with a lower-body injury and David Kampf cleared waivers on Saturday, creating short-term lineup openings.
• Cowan remains waiver-exempt, giving Toronto flexibility as it sets its lineup for Wednesday’s home opener against the Canadiens.