JUST IN:Simon Benoit Worth Long-Term Contract Risk with the Maple Leafs

General manager (GM) Brad Treliving of the Toronto Maple Leafs signed Simon Benoit as blue-line insurance. Despite being given an opportunity to make the squad, it appeared that his destiny was to play for the Toronto Marlies in the American Hockey League (AHL) until an injury called for his return to the major league team.

Many were still perplexed by the signing at that point. For a player who was so awful with the Anaheim Ducks the previous season, why would the franchise squander any of its precious salary-cap room on him? The wonder made sense in certain ways. Benoit’s stats were low even though he played minutes in top four pairings in Anaheim. He only managed three goals and seven assists (for ten points) in 78 games. Although it should come as no surprise for a defensive defenseman, his plus/minus rating was a minus-29.

Fans of the Maple Leafs were not happy with the team’s choice to sign Benoit. A commenter noted concerns regarding Benoit’s background from what they described as a “terrible team” and expressed fear that head coach Sheldon Keefe could favor him over more accomplished defensemen. In a succinct and direct criticism, a different commenter called Benoit a “Bust,” doubting his ability to contribute anything.

Another fan mockingly proposed that the group hold a parade in retaliation for Benoit’s signing. To say there was cynicism and misgivings regarding the impact and usefulness of Benoit to the squad would be an understatement given the degree of distrust that pervaded the situation.

Benoit Hits the Maple Leafs Training Camp with Confidence

In an article written in late September, Luke Fox wrote about Benoit’s confidence and resilience. Benoit came across as self-defined by his physical play but also unwaveringly determined to make a mark on his new team. Fox nicely framed his article with Benoit seeing himself as a distinctive underdog and making the team was a bone he would not let go of. There was, in Benoit’s mind, no way he wasn’t going to earn a spot on the team’s roster.

Maybe Benoit’s never-quit attitude has led him to the Maple Leafs’ second pairing with Jake McCabe over the course of 33 games since he first got the chance.

Benoit’s ascent to the NHL was anything but typical. As an undrafted player, he was trying to find a place in the NHL. Despite being a member of the squad that finished last, he reached career highs during his tenure with the Ducks. Benoit’s desire for success was only heightened when the Ducks chose not to qualify him as a restricted free agent (RFA) in June.

Fox also mentioned Benoit’s audacious forecasts. Benoit thought he have the skills and motivation he required. He was going to establish his worth. He had injuries and disappointments, but he saw them as opportunities for development. Luckily, as it appears to have worked out, his desire to leave his stamp on the club coincided with the Maple Leafs’ desire to find individuals who saw obstacles as a necessary part of the process.

Benoit Proves He Meets the Needs of the Maple Leafs
Benoit’s dependability and physicality suddenly filled a long-standing team need. He was a tough and resilient defenseman. He characterized his style as “really physical,” which fit the team’s goals.

The Maple Leafs may have finally found the missing puzzle piece in Benoit’s underdog-with-a-bone mindset. He has a strong work ethic and plays with heart. Fans witness a player who not only brings a defensive approach but also a game-changing attitude every time he puts on the Maple Leafs shirt.

I’ve seen him make passes that resulted in poor turnovers at least twice. But, in order to end the attacking opportunity he generated, he blasted his rear end both times and threw himself in front of the enemy. While he makes errors, he also goes above and above to correct them.

With his unwavering work ethic and self-assurance translating into on-ice contributions, Benoit is proving to be an unexpected asset that enhances the Maple Leafs’ blueline depth and brings a positive dynamic to the team.

Mid-Season Update: Benoit Has Earned His Place
After making his Maple Leafs debut on November 6, Benoit was a healthy scratch for a number of games. He has, however, been a regular on the blue line since mid-November, playing as McCabe’s (who has shifted deftly to the right side) left-side second-pairing defender.

Player cards from The Athletic evaluate the worth and performance of various NHL players. The following are some observations gleaned from Benoit’s player card (from Dom Luszcyszyn and Shayna Goldman, “NHL Player Cards: Atlantic Division,” The Athletic, January 28, 2024):

“On the ice, Benoit, a 25-year-old defenseman who is 6-foot-3 and weighs 203 pounds, has averaged 16 minutes and 22 seconds of ice time per game according to his performance analytics. Based on his rating, his current pay is $800,000. However, his estimated market value is $2.3 million. That indicates a $1.5 million excess value.

When it comes to his offensive output, Benoit still has potential to grow. He has a -8 rating on his player card and a -7 projection rating. Among defenseman, that puts him in the ninth percentile. His defensive ranking, though, presents a different picture. He has a strong rating of +8 there, and it is predicted that he will finish at +4. That evaluation places him in the 91st percentile defensively. Based on this evaluation, he is superior to nine out of ten NHL defenseman.

Benoit’s defensive prowess is evident. In assessing his ratings, one must consider their context and the coaches’ expectations for his role. While offensive improvements could enhance his overall impact, his defensive excellence, sitting in the 91st percentile, positions him as a valuable defensive asset.

The Maple Leafs Should Consider Extending His Contract Now
It’s about time the Maple Leafs give Benoit something for everything that’s transpired. He deserves a spot on the squad. It would be wise to lock him down to a long-term contract in order to guarantee that slot in the starting lineup.