Too bad Barzal is a center, otherwise he will be the perfect line-mate for JT. They both like to cycle and see the ice well, move the puck and pass accurately and have the same level of hockey IQ. Unless Isles can trade or acquire a top UFA winger, for the future 1st line, maybe play Lee-JT-Barzal, with Lee doing most of the screening, board work and score some dirty goals, the other two take care of the set up and finish. Strome need to play center and has to work on his faceoff wins. He and Nelson could be a good combination if he improves further. keep Kuleman as he is needed on the 3rd line and PK to play with resigned Nielsen and maybe play them with MDC (give he a few games and if need to go to AHL then send him down) as Nielsen can dish and carry the puck. When Josh Ho-Sang matures, he can replace Bailey eventually in the line-up on the 2nd line.
Need to draft another big forward (preferably with a RH shot) who can skate and play decent defense. Do not worry about if the player can score much as long as he can handle the puck, win most board battles, have decent pass and hockey IQ. For some players, the scoring may come later with increase in confidence. On the 3rd line, this is not that crucial.
By the way as long Josh Ho-Sang does not do anything dumb like being late in meeting or say something inappropriate to piss of his coach, teammates and fans off, Isles can use a bit of his cockiness and confidence. This is something that is somewhat lacking in Bailey that would have made him a better player.