Maple Leafs’ Easton Cowan credits Craig Berube on helping him simplify the game

Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka announced Berube’s dismissal Wednesday. Berube’s tenure ends after two seasons where he posted a record of 84-62-18. The move opens a position that could be highly coveted around the league due to the players currently on the Maple Leafs’ roster, including 2023 first-round draft pick Easton Cowan.

Cowan is coming off his rookie season, in which he impressed in the Maple Leafs’ lineup. The 20-year-old recorded 11 goals and 18 assists, the 29th-most points among all rookies in the NHL. After getting off to a slow start and finding himself fighting for a spot in the lineup through the season’s opening months, Cowan finished the year strong, posting nine points over his final 15 games. Cowan appeared to gain more confidence as the year went on, adjusting to life at the game’s highest level.

Following the Toronto Marlies’ practice on Wednesday, Cowan spoke about the help Berube provided him during his first season at the NHL level.

“Unfortunately, that’s part of the business, obviously, we had a tough year,” Cowan said via TSN’s Mark Masters. “He taught me a lot. He’s a good coach, and I learned a lot from him. He taught me how to simplify the game and just help some little things around the game.”

Following the completion of the Maple Leafs’ regular season, Cowan joined the Marlies for their playoff run. The Marlies have won their first two series, defeating the Rochester Americans in the first round before upsetting the Laval Rocket in the North Division semifinals.

Cowan has been a major part of the Marlies’ success, recording two goals and four assists. Cowan’s six points place him in a tie for third among all Marlies during the postseason. Prior to taking on the Cleveland Monsters in Game 1 of the North Division finals on Thursday, Cowan touched on how important this playoff run is for showcasing his play to his next head coach.

“I’m just going to keep playing my game,” Cowan said. “Obviously, someone new is coming in [to coach Leafs]. They’re probably watching, whoever it is, so keep competing, keep playing my game leading into the summer, have a good summer and be ready for camp.”

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