Easton Cowan is starting to earn more trust from Toronto Maple Leafs coach Craig Berube. On Thursday, analysts on First Up talked about his recent progress. They said Cowan has played well in his last three games. He recorded one goal and two assists during that stretch. He is showing more confidence with extra ice time.Michael Distefano pointed out Cowan’s strong numbers against the Blue Jackets. Cowan led the team with a 70 percent expected goal rating at five on five. He also scored the game-tying goal late in the third period. He got into a good spot and shot the puck quickly. His simple approach helped Toronto push the game to overtime."Big moment for him," Distefano said. "And if he can give you a couple more of those moments, I mean, he's had chances. Okay, this guy's been a bum out there, he's had chances. Just hasn't really buried. Last night he did, and you saw what that could do for his confidence, the confidence of the team."Distefano said Cowan’s hunger is a big part of his success. Cowan knows he must earn his place every night. He is only 20 years old and still learning the league. He plays with energy and stays accountable to the system. That attitude helps him gain trust from the coaching staff."You give yourself a chance, and OT Willie does his thing," Distefano said. "And now we're talking about a win instead of a loss, because he was able to provide the Leafs with that moment, with that goal, at that time... Well, it's hunger too."Like he's 20 years old; he's not guaranteed a spot in the lineup each and every night, so he's got to prove himself each and every night. So I think it's that hunger ... if I don't play my coach's way, ...I'm not going to be in the lineup next game."Easton Cowan's performance in his debut NHL season.Easton Cowan now has seven points in 15 games this season. He has adjusted well to the NHL pace. His forechecking and shooting have been steady strengths. He added three shots and two hits against Columbus, and his play continues to give the Leafs another useful option.Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs sit at 10-10-3 this season, and they have lost seven out of their last ten games. They also struggle with defense and special teams. Toronto scores 3.30 goals per game but allows 3.61. So, they need a tighter structure to climb in the standings.