The 2025-26 NHL season has officially concluded, and with the draft and free agency rapidly approaching, it’s about to be an active next few weeks around the league.
It could be a particularly busy summer on the trade market, with the rumor mill as hot as it’s been in quite some time and plenty of big-name players facing questionable futures with their current teams.
One of the many organizations desperate to shake up its roster is the Toronto Maple Leafs, and Sportsnet’s Rory Boylen is predicting that in order to do so new GM John Chayka could move top prospect Easton Cowan as part of a major deal this offseason.
“And, who knows, with just the right summer trade or two, they could even surprise. Morgan Rielly and one of the goalies are oft-discussed trade possibilities this summer, but what about 21-year-old winger Easton Cowan? If the Leafs are in the market for a sizeable deal, one that puts next season more into focus, they may have to consider moving the youngster to get a deal done. We’re thinking the Leafs have a shot to be very active as John Chayka and Co. look to put their stamp on the team, and Cowan is an intriguing asset to use,”
The 21-year-old Cowan will be entering the second year of the three-year, $2.67 million entry-level contract he signed with the Maple Leafs after being drafted in 2023. He posted 29 points (11 goals, 18 assists) in 66 games as a rookie in 2025-26.
While Maple Leafs fans may be up in arms over the possibility of trading their best young player in Cowan — at least until Gavin McKenna or whoever they take first-overall arrives — it may not be all that far-fetched. That’s especially true if, as Boylen notes, Chayka and company are looking to quickly retool the roster back into contention.
Toronto’s lack assets in terms of draft picks and prospects to make significant deals is well known, so if they want to acquire an impact player, moving someone like Cowan might be the only way to get it done.
It all shapes up to be a potentially fascinating few months for the Maple Leafs.
