The Toronto Maple Leafs appear to have taken a lesson to heart, and John Tavares made sure to recognize it. After criticism surrounding the team’s lack of response to a hit on Auston Matthews, rookie Easton Cowan stepped up in a big way, earning praise from the Leafs veteran.
John Tavares Praises Easton Cowan’s Response in Maple Leafs Win
During the Leafs’ 4-2 win over the Boston Bruins on Tuesday, tensions rose late in the second period when Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov boarded Tavares from behind.
Cowan didn’t hesitate. The young forward immediately dropped the gloves and went after the much bigger Zadorov. Oliver Ekman-Larsson also jumped into the scrum before officials separated everyone.
Zadorov received a 5-minute boarding major, while Cowan was handed a 2-minute roughing penalty. But the message had already been sent, and the Leafs were standing up for one another.
The physical tone continued early in the third period when Dakota Joshua fought Zadorov in response to the earlier hit. Both players exchanged punches before being separated, each receiving 5 minutes for fighting.
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After the game, Tavares made it clear how much Cowan’s reaction meant. “I really appreciated it. He’s feeling pretty tall right now, I guess … pretty big man he was going at there. The way he came in defence of me it speaks volumes to his passion for the group, for the team,” Tavares said.
Tavares also praised the rookie’s energy and enthusiasm. “He plays with a lot of emotion. You can feel his excitement on a daily basis just getting up & getting to play & compete. I remember being in those shoes so it’s invigorating … I think the world of him,” he added.
Cowan admitted he didn’t think twice about the size difference between himself and Zadorov. “Just tried to get in there and stick up for my teammates. I feel like we did a good job… You kind of black out and go for it,” Cowan said.
The response comes after heavy criticism following a hit from Radko Gudas of the Anaheim Ducks that contributed to Matthews’ season ending early. The play drew attention because no Leafs player immediately stepped in to defend their captain.
Cowan acknowledged that moment stuck with him. “I wish I did something. And that’s on me. I got to step in there, stick up for my teammates. So, I’ll learn from that,” he said.
Tuesday’s game showed that the lesson may already be taking effect. The Leafs responded physically, backed each other up, and earned praise from their leadership group. Toronto now quickly turns its focus to a matchup against the New York Rangers on Wednesday.
