from Michael Traikos at the Toronto Sun,

(Dylan) Strome, who had led the Ontario Hockey League in scoring with 129 points, was tall and talented. But he also was a kid who lacked strength and whose skating was an issue. He needed time to bulk up, grow up and mature. Spending another year in junior was not just expected — it was considered essential.

“In all candor, I did not think he would be making so hard a push for the opening night roster,” Maloney said in a phone interview. “I just thought he would be here for a short stint and be back to Erie.”

That short stint is looking more like it could turn into a permanent roster spot....

Not only were Edmonton’s Connor McDavid and Buffalo’s Jack Eichel expected to not only make their respective teams, but from Carolina’s Noah Hanifin (No. 5) and New Jersey’s Pavel Zacha (No. 6) to Colorado’s Mikko Rantanen (No. 10) and Florida’s Lawson Crouse (No. 11), there could be as many as eight players who jump straight to the NHL.

Even New York Islanders’ Mathew Barzal, the No. 16 selection, is still hanging around camp while Toronto’s Mitch Marner, the No. 4 selection, was sent back to junior.

“Right now we’re looking at the big picture,” Leafs GM Lou Lamoriello said. “Which means is if there’s a decision of do you bring him up too soon or too late, it’s always better to bring a player up too late.”

Added Panthers GM Dale Tallon: “You have to look at the situation. Sometimes you’re taking a step backwards by going back (to junior).”

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