Hokydad:
I think this article supports your argument that the college route, if a player sticks with it, can provide a better ecosystem and the time to develop into a professional, (adding 20 lbs of muscle mass, speed and explosiveness, skills). Your time is not totally consumed with travel and games. You only have to look at Union and what those 5 seniors looked like, and played like, as freshmen, to appreciate what that development can mean. None of them were draft picks. Strength training can go on right through the college hockey season.
Ideal Hockey Player Development
http://collegehockeyinc.com/player-development
"The schedule we played, the guys we practiced against every day while we were there, and the style we played - it was all very beneficial for me and my development." - Brian Boyle, Boston College/New York Rangers
"You can see the difference between the college and junior guys. The schedule in college allows you more time in the weight room, so the biggest thing that I notice is that they’re more well-rounded in the room during the workouts. They’re familiar with the technique and they also have a very good base." - Paul Goodman, Strength & Conditioning Coach, Chicago Blackhawks