A few thoughts:
#1 Solid run after some not so solid performances. 2:09 + Canadian record is fantastic. I do agree that Nike is probably a little bitter today. Good on Hoka for taking him on.
#2 His pacing was incredible. Waited until the second half of the race to really go for it. I agree that someone like Stinson can learn from this. Yes, Stinson's half split was about right at Chicago but have you ever gone out super hot in a marathon...? It usually doesn't end well. Much better to conserve energy and run even.
#3 Today's run kind of reminded me of what Rupp did in Chicago last year to some extent. Levins looked pretty calm/relaxed during the race and is a somewhat taller marathon runner and picked it up towards the end to beat the people around him. He obviously didn't close as fast as Rupp did or beat the field Rupp did or win but this run makes me feel like Cam could improve at this distance and really go for 2:06ish in the future.
#4 What's next? I'm guessing Boston. He might not improve upon his 2:09 this spring if he goes there to run a championship style race before the Olympics.