Promising Defenseman Joins the Leafs
Simon Benoit signed a one-year contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs earlier this week, valued at $775,000.
At 24 years old, Benoit played 137 games across four NHL seasons.
While not necessarily an offensive powerhouse, Benoit does add a youthful, physical dimension to Toronto's defensive line.
His Role
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Insiders suggest that Benoit is poised to step into a role similar to that of a former Leaf. Kyle Cushman, in a post on X, said that Simon Benoit serves as a natural successor to Jordie Benn, who had a short stint of 12 games with the Leafs. This suggests that Benoit is expected to act as a depth player, ready to step in at the NHL level when required, while honing his skills in the AHL whenever feasible.
"Benoit played a full year in the NHL and got crushed in his minutes. A physical depth defenceman who can play both sides, likely fills a Jordie Benn type role from last year"
While Benoit did struggled during his first full season in Anaheim, it's important to note that he was part of one of the worst defensive teams in recent history. The hope is that, surrounded by better players in Toronto, Benoit will begin to thrive.
"Simon Benoit is a physical, defensive defensemen, there's no mistaking that. Not a good puck mover or offensive threat but doesn't shy away from a hit, blocked shot, or fight
His 216 hits ranked 21st league-wide last year. I expect him to be used similar to Jordie Benn last year"
His 216 hits ranked 21st league-wide last year. I expect him to be used similar to Jordie Benn last year"
Upon arriving in Toronto, Benoit will reunite with a familiar teammate: John Klingberg, who was also acquired by the Leafs this past offseason from Anaheim. The two shared the ice for 43 games last season. With the comfort of having Klingberg around and the new opportunities that Toronto offers, Benoit may just turn out to be a great acquisition for the Leafs as they gear up for the 2023-24 season.
As seen on Hockey Patrol - New Maple Leafs Defenseman's Role In Toronto Revealed
| POLL | ||
29 AOUT | 78 ANSWERS Latest Leafs' Acquisition Now Knows His Role in Toronto Do you think Benoit will play the whole year in Toronto? | ||
| Yes | 40 | 51.3 % |
| No | 38 | 48.7 % |
| LIST OF POLLS | ||
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