**Title: Easton Cowan's NHL Debut Approaches Amid Anticipation**

Easton Cowan, affectionately known as "Cowboy," is on the verge of making his National Hockey League debut this weekend. His family and friends in London are preparing for a potential trip, whether it be to Detroit on Saturday night or back to Toronto on Monday to face the Red Wings again. Cowan expressed excitement, saying, "If I find out I’m in, I’ll have about 20 or 30 people there," and humorously added that playing in Detroit might be preferable due to the traffic.

Cowan has been practicing with the team, alternating on the fourth line with Calle Jarnkrok, alongside center Nicolas Roy and Steven Lorentz. Coach Craig Berube has not confirmed Cowan's debut, stating, "He’s close. He has a great attitude, works hard and had a good practice today, but those are decisions we have to make. We’ll see what happens tomorrow."

The most likely scenario for Cowan's debut is on Monday, which would be an emotional home game for him. This game marks the beginning of a back-to-back series, allowing Cowan to rest against the Nashville Predators on Tuesday if needed. Berube is hesitant to disrupt the winning lineup from the opening night, especially after Jarnkrok scored in the recent 5-2 victory over Montreal.

Cowan, who was the team's first-round pick two years ago, played in a team-high five exhibition games. He was initially left off the 23-man roster due to salary cap constraints but was activated shortly after. He noted the success of his friend Fraser Minten, who scored the overtime winner for the Bruins on Thursday, saying, "It’s out of my control. That’s why I’m working hard every day, having good scratch skates and getting better. Practicing with NHL guys is only going to get you better, picking everyone’s brain. So, as soon as I get in, I’ll be ready."

As Cowan awaits his debut, the history of memorable Maple Leafs debuts is highlighted. Auston Matthews made headlines on October 12, 2016, by scoring four goals in his first game, a record-setting performance. Borje Salming, who debuted on October 10, 1973, quickly won over fans with his impressive skating and playmaking abilities. George Armstrong, who debuted on December 3, 1949, went on to have a Hall of Fame career, while Ed Belfour recorded a shutout in his first game on October 10, 2002. Joe Ironstone, who played on March 3, 1927, made a remarkable debut with 44 saves in a tie against Boston.

As Cowan prepares for his potential debut, the excitement surrounding his first game continues to build, both for him and the fans who have followed his journey to the NHL.