Overview

• Toronto coach Craig Berube said Cowan has to play a simpler, north, defensively responsible style to gain trust and win a roster spot.
• Cowan reported adding about seven pounds over the summer to roughly 5-foot-11½ and 190 pounds and said his goal is to make the Maple Leafs.
• Analysts view the AHL Marlies as the likely starting point to secure heavy minutes, with a short early NHL look possible if he impresses.
• Competition for forward roles includes NHL regulars such as Matias Maccelli and Dakota Joshua and contenders Nick Robertson, Nicolas Roy and Scott Laughton.
• Cowan enters his first pro season after OHL regular-season and playoff MVP honors, a Memorial Cup title and MVP, and a strong playoff run, with some coverage noting defensive-zone growth as a priority.