As a matter of fact, you can start gathering required documents anytime, since there's an application guide giving instructions with document checklists for every PNP (OINP's checklist is particularly comprehensive). Of course, that implies planning and having expenses in advance (for example, translating bank statments you might never need to use) - and that's all immigration is about, unfortunately.
Actually, people who apply to NSPNP and SINP MUST do it, since, unlike OINP, there isn't an application submission window - you must register and submit your application on the fly whenever their streams open for registration. They usually announce they'll open their registration window just a couple days before they do, so any last minute certified translations you order, should you need them and manage to get them ready, will become extremely expensive.
Doubtful or not, you can check the tracker youself, if you wish to. If this was a bogus entry, or if they applied wrongfully with a 2017 NOI (which will make OINP return the file, since 2017 NOIs are voided), we'll know soon enough.
https://myimmitracker.com/en/ca/trackers/ontario-human-capital-priorities-stream-tracker
