Shock setback for Easton Cowan ahead of Leafs’ home opener

There was hope, and then it was crushed.

While the Toronto Maple Leafs recalled Easton Cowan earlier on Wednesday, ahead of the team’s home opener against the Montreal Canadiens later tonight, the hope was short lived to see the rookie make his NHL debut.

According to insider Jonas Siegel, Cowan is not going to make his NHL debut tonight against the Habs after he got extra work at the end of the morning skate with projected scratches, Philippe Myers and Sammy Blais.

Cowan worked as the team’s 13th forward in practice Sunday before Monday’s roster was announced, but was left off it due to cap compliance.

At this time on social media, Leafs' fans appear to be furious with the decision.

Head coach Craig Berube went on to confirm after the skate that Cowan's debut will have to wait.

"He's up here with us, we're happy about that. He's here."

The young forward posted 29 goals and 69 points in 46 games with the London Knights last year, and then added 13 goals and 39 points in 17 playoff games as London repeated as OHL champions.At the Memorial Cup, he went on to record three goals and seven points to tie for the tournament lead in scoring and took home the Stafford Smythe Trophy as tournament MVP.

Cowan now has to wait a little longer for his NHL debut.