After a heartbreaking loss in the Memorial Cup final last year, the London Knights are back for a shot at redemption.

"It means a lot just to have that opportunity again," said Knights right winger Easton Cowan, who is one of 13 returnees on the roster. "Most of us thought about it all summer when we were training. It kind of to pushes you a bit more."

The last-minute loss to the host Saginaw Spirit in the championship game last year helped drive the Knights to another Ontario Hockey League title.

"Unfortunately we lost but, like they say, you come back stronger," Cowan added.

The Knights sure looked stronger. London steamrolled through the OHL playoffs, losing just one game.

The Knights will open their Memorial Cup schedule on Saturday against the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League champion Moncton Wildcats before facing the host Rimouski Oceanic on Sunday. London will wrap up the preliminary round on Tuesday against the Western Hockey League champion Medicine Hat Tigers.

Last year, London ran the table in the round-robin to earn a bye to the final. But the Knights started slow in the biggest game of the year against Saginaw, falling behind 3-0. A hard lesson was learned and the mindset this year is clear.

"It's just about coming out hot and playing every game like it's your last," said Cowan.

The native of Mount Brydges, Ont., who celebrated his 20th birthday on Tuesday, is looking to cap an incredible junior career with a championship. The Toronto Maple Leafs prospect is expected to make the jump to the professional ranks next season.

During a conversation with TSN, Cowan reflected on his growth this season, explained why he embraces the hate in visiting arenas, and also shared the best advice he's received from Leafs winger and Knights alumnus Mitch Marner. The following is an edited transcript of the interview.

TSN: In Game 5 of the OHL final against Oshawa, you scored the empty netter to seal the series and set off a celebration in London. What was that moment like?

Cowan: It was unreal. Honestly, kind of blacked out. Just an unreal experience and just an awesome feeling to bring home a........

© TSN