If there was any debate coming into the season, the last three months have nullified it: Easton Cowan is the best prospect in the Toronto Maple Leafs organization.
The 18-year-old London Knights forward is in the middle of a preposterous 29-game point streak, the CHL’s longest this season, and is tied for the OHL lead in points per game (1.77).
Cowan might have been a surprise first-round pick in 2023. But looking back (as recent as it was and as much as things can change) it’s hard to imagine him available at the 28th pick in a re-draft.
This season, he’s developed serious pro attributes: His excellent skating has helped solidify him as a 200-foot player who showcases tenacity, strong penalty-killing and an evident hockey IQ.
His point streak and noticeable improvements have have made him a valuable NHL trade chip. And there is a line of thinking that the most optimal time to move on an asset is when its value is highest.
But does that mean the Leafs should move him this week?
Cowan’s value may continue to climb. Moving him for the kind of piece that usually comes back at the trade deadline – a supplementary piece with limited term, if any – wouldn’t just be selling Cowan’s potential short, it would be detrimental to the Leafs long-term.
Consistency is often what NHL coaches look for in their teams and players. And starting with Cowan’s point streak, this season he’s proven he can produce night after night. But even so.