Maple Leafs news and rumours: McMann, Tavares, Minten and Cowan.
“In this edition of Toronto Maple Leafs News & Rumors, we take a look at the impact John Tavares is having on the rest of the team. Second, let’s look at two of the team’s top prospects: Frazier Minten and Ethan Cowan. Finally, we will share the modified schedule of the organization.
Point 1: John Tavares is on his way to 1,000 points.
John Tavares is the epitome of consistency and professionalism. I recently published a post where I shared information about Tavares’ impact on both William Nylander and Mitch Marner using insights from analytics experts. The analyst praised Tavares’ ability to win puck battles (he leads the NHL in that category). Expert analysis reveals how this skill has translated into success in his second career. That he continues to play well as he gets older is a testament to his work ethic as he prepares each season. Now Tavares is closing in on the 1,000-point mark in his NHL career. As the milestone approaches, Maple Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe reflects on the traits that have defined Tavares’ career: tenacity, longevity and, above all, consistency. Keefe highlighted Tavares’ consistent scoring numbers in the NHL and attributed that performance not only to Tavares’ skill, but also to his constant daily preparation, self-preservation and continued development. According to Coach Keefe, Tavares is the epitome of professionalism and demonstrates the dedication required to reach the highest level of the game. Keefe also noted Tavares’ influence on younger players like Nylander, Auston Matthews and Marner. In that regard, he pointed out that Tavares’ work ethic on and off the ice is exemplary. Despite his age, Tavares refuses to let his training fail him and continues to work hard to hone his skills, improve his skating and stay physically fit.
Keefe believes Tavares’ effort has been impressive, benefiting the team’s best players and creating an atmosphere that matters to everyone. In a competition that requires dedication and professionalism for longevity and high performance, Tavares is a shining example. He proved that sustained success requires constant work and a cautious approach to the game. Point 2: Minten and Cowan both compete at the World Junior Championships.
Frazier Minten and Easton Cowan are both having great junior seasons. These impressive on-ice performances make him a strong contender for Team Canada at the 2024 World Junior Championships. After returning to the Western Hockey League after four games with the Maple Leafs, Minten showed his scoring ability with 13 points in 11 games. Cowan also had solid performances for the youth team with 11 goals and 36 points in 22 games. Minten played for the rebuilding Kamloops Blazers before moving to the Saskatoon Blades. Even in Portland, he was a better scorer per game. While playing for both teams, he consistently scored goals and improved his offensive ability.
Here’s why I think both young players would be good candidates for Canada’s world junior team. Reason number one: Both players are versatile forwards.
Both players are centers who can play on the wing if needed. This flexibility is an advantage for Team Canada and gives them options for a variety of track configurations. Additionally, the fact that Minten and Cowan know each other adds to the appeal. Their chemistry could help form a solid third or fourth line that improves team dynamics throughout the tournament. The second reason: Both players are models of teamwork.
Minten and Cowan are both role models for how Team Canada builds their teams because, in addition to their unique skill sets, they also align with Hockey Canada’s team building philosophy. Cowan is a firebrand, or at least a player who plays that style, and Minten is a physical two-way player. Both are solid contenders for a bottom six finish and have the potential to contribute effectively in specialist roles.
From what I’ve read, Hockey Canada values players who can fill specific roles within the team structure. As a result, Minten and Cowan’s style of play could fit well with Team Canada’s approach and offer a variety of skills and attributes.
Point 3: Bobby McMann is back with the big club.
It’s been a strange season for Bobby McMann. The 27-year-old played for the Toronto Marlies of the NHL and the American Hockey League (AHL). At times, he’ll play a fourth-line role with the Maple Leafs or a top-six role with the Marlies. McMann skated in a fourth-string role during Maple Leafs practice yesterday. In four games with the Maple Leafs this season, he has two assists. His recent moves between the NHL and AHL reflect the organization’s ongoing pattern of roster adjustments. I remember Nick Robertson saying when I was called up to the Maple Leafs last season that my salary would be higher if I stayed with the Maple Leafs. What’s next for the Maple Leafs?
Defenseman Max Lajoie is another player who has bounced between the AHL and NHL. And this. He attended Maple Leafs practice on Tuesday. While he has had his ups and downs, his playing time has been limited to just one NHL game this season.
The 26-year-old defenseman remains on the bench and is unlikely to see any action in Thursday’s game against the Ottawa Senators. So far, back-up defenders Simon Benoit and William Lagesson have done well enough to spring to mind.
