Yes, you read that right, and it has nothing to do with the team’s on-ice play.
Sabres General Manager Kevyn Adams has a massive decision to make as Zach Benson has played eight games so far this season. If Benson plays in two more this year, his entry-level contract (ELC) will begin.
Benson has undoubtedly been one of the Sabres’ most impactful forwards so far, and his on-ice play has warranted a stay in the NHL, but the team may decide to send him back to the WHL to save a year on his ELC. He has gone from a long shot at training camp to a key piece to this team’s current success.
The Sabres are currently amidst the longest playoff droughts in major sports (along with the New York Jets), and the organization should be doing everything in its power to end that drought. This team was one point out of a playoff spot last season. Since then, they have gained another year of development, found some much-needed average goaltending and added some depth pieces to the lineup. Why is this not the year to make that push?
If the Sabres decide to send Benson back to Wenatchee, I think it’s safe to say the team is basically punting on this year and isn’t 100% driven on making playoffs. Zach Benson makes this team better with his quick play and tenacity on the ice.
While he is still searching for his first NHL goal (he’s been so close several times now), he has four assists in his eight games. His point-per-game total is tied with Dylan Cozens and is better than Jordan Greenway, Kyle Okposo, Zemgus Girgensons, Victor Olofsson, Tyson Jost and Peyton Krebs.
The Sabres have not made the playoffs since I was in the 5th grade, I am now 23. That doesn’t mean I am going to stand on a soapbox and yell for older players to be brought in here. But why not let our players who have earned a spot on this team continue to play and develop here?
What does sending Benson back to juniors do for him? Matt Savoie is back there now and has seven points in four games played. Being in the WHL won’t progress his game the same way as playing in the NHL. Due to the league’s baffling rule with CHL players not being able to play in the AHL (I will never understand this), the best option for Benson and the Sabres is for him to be in Buffalo.
Zach Benson needs to be on the Sabres roster because he makes this team better now and in the future. I am more than okay with losing a year of his ELC to keep him on the ice in Buffalo and make the most of this season. Tage Thompson is still out and Jack Quinn still has some time till his return. Let the kid play, and while we are at it, give the boys in Rochester a chance as well.
This conversation is also important with defenseman Ryan Johnson. He has really shown out in his opportunity with the Sabres and has rejuvenated the d-core. Sending him back to Rochester sends the exact same message as sending Benson back to juniors. Both Johnson and Benson make this team better and should be rewarded for their play, not punished.
Plans are meant to change, and I hope this organization trusts its younger players because they will be what moves this organization forward.
Benson is set to play his ninth game on Nov. 22 at Washington, then his hypothetical tenth on Nov. 24 against the Penguins.
Do you agree with my thoughts here? Comment down below or tweet me @gatesy35 with how you feel.
One Response
I agree on Johnson, still have mixed feelings on Benson and se ding means nothing except they want him to play regular. Yes there may be more injuries but otherwise if Thompson and Quinn come back, will Benson dress? Will he play quality minutes. He needs strength and conditioning and regular play. Not sure he gets much play if the Sabres are healthy. Now that picture looks different if they trade someone like Olofson for draft pick or a prospect.