The Toronto Maple Leafs are heading to Quebec to face the Montreal Canadiens in their third preseason game Thursday night and the roster they are bringing is full of players who could seize the opportunity that's in front of them. Of course, the Canadiens will be dressing virtually their full NHL lineup since they want to give their fans a show. Meanwhile, head coach Craig Berube will be having a lineup that is almost full of players who aren't sure where they will be playing hockey when the regular season kicks off. The good part of it is, though, that this is the time to try and impress their coach -- to do something up against a tougher opponent on-paper to maybe prevent a demotion down to the AHL or to be placed on waivers in the coming days.
Some might say that Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan is following in the same footsteps as former star Mitch Marner -- and the ex-Leaf revealed that he was talking with the young prospect all throughout last season.
Wickenheiser noted that Cowan's progress reflects a great jump in development, emphasizing his leadership, passion, and improved pro habits observed in the latter half of the season.