Toronto Maple Leafs forward Easton Cowan may only be entering his third NHL game, but he is quickly getting himself comfortable by keeping it simple.

Cowan made an immediate impression on the team from the start of training camp, with his tenacious play style, willingness to engage physically, and attention to the finer details. Combine that with a boatload of confidence in his abilities, and it’s no wonder he didn’t look out of place when put on the first line in his NHL debut.

He spoke with reporters after the morning skate on Thursday about what has led to his promising start alongside Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies.

“ Just try to keep it simple. Playing my game, playing north,” he said. “Supporting the puck well. I feel like all three of us have created a lot and we’re looking to capitalize here and there.”

Though his first week in the NHL, Cowan has quickly picked up that everyone on the ice is a good player with tons of skill, so it’s imperative to always be ready to receive the puck because he will get it. That has been especially apparent when he got to share the ice with the likes of Patrick Kane and Steven Stamkos in his first two games, and will face off against Artemi Panarin and the New York Rangers.

Cowan also knew that he had to beef up to withstand the physical onslaught that would be coming his way, which he deemed the hits against him as just part of the game.

“ I feel like I’ve been hitting a lot, just looking to keep that going. Keep finishing my checks, playing hard hockey and simple hockey, and I’ll be good,” he said. “ You’re trying to get stronger and faster all summer, so just keeping up in the gym and working hard. I feel like I got really strong this summer and just looking to keep that going here throughout the year.”

One aspect that he is still getting accustomed to is the lifestyle away from the rink, which has been eased by the Leafs being in the midst of a homestand and resulting in Cowan’s family being nearby. He got a crash course on what it’s like to be on the road with his teammates, where he got pranked by Matthews during a team dinner in Detroit where he got handed the bill and thought for a moment he had to pay for the meal.

One of the things he ate that night was tuna tartare, which Cowan deemed fine but likely won’t have again since he’s not big on fish.

“ The dinner is very good food, nice hotel, so just being grateful for each and every day,” he said. “ It’s called the Never Hungry League for a reason.  I haven’t really been hungry that much. I’ve eaten a lot and lots of good foods. I’ve been very grateful for that.”