Easton Cowan is a big Christmas guy: Leafs Morning Take

Need an escape from the family for a few minutes?

Well, you’re in luck.

As we’ve been hyping up for the past few weeks, Jay Rosehill and I got together for a holiday special to help pass the time until another Maple Leafs gameday.

The World Juniors will begin earnest on Boxing Day in Sweden as Team Canada will begin its quest for a three-peat. In case you missed it, Fraser Minten, who came out of nowhere to crack the Leafs’ opening night roster out of training camp, was named Canada’s captain on Christmas Eve. Furthermore, Easton Cowan, Toronto’s first round selection from last June’s draft, also made the team.

Speaking of which, we were fortunate enough to spend a few minutes with the London Knights star ahead of the tourney opener on Tuesday. Between getting drafted, taking part in his first NHL training camp, and making Team Canada, suffice it is to say, Cowan’s had himself an incredible past six months. This kid’s got a bright future —that’s for sure.

 

If you thought our normal podcasts were chilled and laid back, you’ve seen nothing yet. In addition to swapping some holiday stories and memories, we did talk some Maple Leafs, too. Through 31 outings, Sheldon Keefe’s squad is a very respectable 17-8-6, good for a share of second with the Florida Panthers in the Atlantic Division. Over and above that, Toronto’s just four points back of the first place Boston Bruins with a game in hand. From a player standpoint, there was a lot to discuss as well. Auston Matthews is on complete fire and contract year William Nylander has been as consistent as they come. All in all, the Leafs are in a good spot at the three-day holiday break.

Indisputably, the most entertaining part of the podcast was when I threw some listener/viewer questions at Rosey. As per usual, his answers were blunt and unfiltered. Would you want it any other way?

At any rate, join us on Wednesday as the live show returns in its familiar 11 AM ET time slot. We’ll preview the third instalment of the Battle of Ontario.