The appeal of Rodion Amirov's skill set was obvious going into his draft. He dismantled organized neutral zone forechecks with speed, handling, and manipulation. Slippery and explosive, he changed directions to fake out the incoming defender, then sped away into the slot. And his defensive details neared NHL-calibre as a draft-eligible prospect.

With all of those qualities, Amirov was an easy first-round pick. He was EliteProspects’ No. 17-ranked prospect in the class before the Leafs picked him 15th overall in October.

It’s a truism that seems especially applicable in Amirov’s case: His NHL career will likely be determined by his development. I know, I know – hear me out.