Easton Cowan deserves a lot of credit for answering the moment: Leafs Morning Take

Now that’s the kind of response you want to see after a questionable hit on a top player.

Too little, too late, but at least it looks like the message from the Gudas–Matthews situation has finally resonated.

There was plenty of discussion about it on Wednesday’s edition of Leafs Morning Take, as Jay Rosehill and I got together for a rare in-person show. Simply put, we both loved the immediate response from Easton Cowan after Nikita Zadorov’s hit from behind on John Tavares. As Rosey said a few weeks back, “You go flying in there and you ask questions later.” Message received. That’s exactly how it should be done. We also got into Toronto’s renewed emphasis on sticking up for one another—and how that identity shift is starting to show. Long-term, we’ll see if it’s something that sticks with this team as they begin to re-imagine the roster.

Of course the Leafs go into Boston and win that game, right? They outshot the Boston, a team battling for a playoff spot, 34-20. Because of course they did. Matthew Knies delivered a vintage effort, potting two goals, while John Tavares chipped in with three assists. It was easily Toronto’s best showing in weeks. Maybe the Leafs were inspired by their mentors, who were along for the trip. It was another humble reminder of what this team’s capable of when they apply themselves.

After that, Dave Feschuk of The Toronto Star stopped by to break down the Maple Leafs’ impressive win in Boston. Feschuk offered his early evaluation of Cowan’s rookie campaign and zoomed out on the bigger picture, discussing Toronto’s looming offseason, uncertainty in the front office, Brad Treliving’s future, and the possibility of a significant roster shakeup. He also weighed in on Matthew Knies’s outlook, Craig Berube’s job security, and what he would prioritize most if he were calling the shots this summer.

Lastly, we gave our quick thoughts on this meaningless home date with the New York Rangers. Rosey’s in town with his kids. They will be at the game. Hope they get a good one!

Plenty coming your way on the Thursday edition of Leafs Morning Take. We’ll recap Leafs/Rangers. Plus, Peter Mansbridge, long-time CBC News Anchor and big-time Leafs fan, will join us once again to weigh in on this slog of a season.