Toronto Maple Leafs linked to former 2nd overall pick Matty Beniers to fill second-line center hole
Photo credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images
A new report has connected the Toronto Maple Leafs for former 2nd overall pick Matty Beniers as a potential second-line center option.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have been desperately searching for a second-line center to pair with Auston Matthews.
With the regression of former captain John Tavares into more a depth center, the Maple Leafs have struggled to fill the void in their top-six with many believing this was the biggest downfall of their season.
With a new General Manager scheduled to come in, fans are hoping that a second line center is at the top of the priority list to upgrade this summer.
Due to there being so much discussion surrounding the second-line center spot, NHL insider Darren Dreger has linked the Maple Leafs to former 2nd overall pick Matty Beniers as a potential fit.
Toronto Maple Leafs linked to former 2nd overall pick Matty Beniers in potential offseason trade
In a new segment on FN Barnburner, Dreger spoke about players who might be available this summer.
During the segment, Dreger mentions Beniers as a player who will likely be available on the trade market this summer.
I don't think he's reached his top level yet; if Seattle isn't convinced of that and he is potentially a piece that might fetch you something better; if I were a team...where I'm shipping players out, he'd be high on my list.
As Dreger mentions, Beniers has not hit his offensive potential in Seattle largely due to a lack of opportunity and significant ice-time.
In Seattle, he has mostly been relied on as a defensive center playing third line minutes but was drafted and touted as an elite two-way center when selected in 2021.
The Maple Leafs are trying to get younger and support their veteran stars with young up and coming talent and Beniers would be the perfect fit for this type of role.
As the offseason gets underway, it will be interesting to see if the Maple Leafs put an offer in for Beniers or if they explore other options instead.
As news breaks on Beniers future in Seattle and beyond we will pass along the latest news to you.
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| POLL | ||
AVRIL 13|128 ANSWERS Toronto Maple Leafs linked to former 2nd overall pick Matty Beniers to fill second-line center hole Do you think Matty Beniers will be traded this summer? | ||
| Yes | 77 | 60.2 % |
| No | 51 | 39.8 % |
| List of polls | ||