ST. PAUL — It's been a busy week for Ryan Strome.
"I've gone from taking exams Monday and Tuesday to flying out Wednesday, whole bunch of interviews the last two days," said Strome, the Niagara IceDogs center who tallied 106 points last season.
Before he could concentrate on the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, Strome needed to ace tests in data management and law. "I'm usually a pretty good math student," he said, "but the brain needs a little rest, that's for sure."
His nerves could finally rest after the New York Islanders made him the No. 5 pick in the draft on Friday night — the third center selected in the top five, and the first in a run of four centers that ended with Sean Couterier going to the Philadelphia Flyers.
Strome's Niagara teammate, defenseman Dougie Hamilton, went next at No. 9 to the Boston Bruins. Strome said he was nervous the Islanders might opt for Hamilton at No. 5. "He texted me about an hour before I left saying whatever happens, it's been a great year," said Strome.
As for his future with the Islanders, Strome has trained with star John Tavares, who had a glowing endorsement of the pick at the Isles' draft party (via Islanders Top Shelf).
"He's a special player. The way he sees the ice is exceptional," said Tavares, after Strome was selected. "He's gonna do great. I've got no doubts about him."
Strome will likely be back in the OHL next season, but he's excited about becoming a part of the young foundation GM Garth Snow is laying down on Long Island.
"It's a big investment for them. It's a big part of their future," he said.
"I want to win a championship. I know I'm young saying that, but that's what you want to do."