With how celebrated the top of the 2023 draft is, 98-point WHLer Zach Benson might be overlooked by some, but that would be a mistake.
The Langley, B.C., kid got his first taste of WHL action two years ago as a 16-year-old and already was nearly a point per game player. His impact only grew in subsequent seasons with the Winnipeg Ice, capped off by this year’s explosion.
At 5-foot-10 and 159 pounds, don’t discount Benson due to his size. He’s always been a high end producer at every level and will be exciting to watch develop in the coming seasons.
Sam Cosentino and Jason Bukala have more on the player…
Sam Cosentino on the player: Growing up with Connor Bedard has served Benson well, as the two have experienced friendly competition and played in the same division throughout the course of their WHL careers. Benson is fresh off a 98-point campaign, good enough for third in the WHL scoring race, finishing behind Bedard and Chase Wheatcroft.
Benson had point streaks of nine, 10, and 14 games this season, but his most memorable night was a six-point effort in an 8-1 win in Edmonton February 26. He benefitted from being able to start his WHL career at age 15 in the WHL bubble, an experience that allowed him to get comfortable with the pace of the game. In between, Benson had a 25-goal, 63-point campaign playing alongside first round picks Conor Geekie, Matthew Savoie and Carson Lambos.
Benson grew up touring around western Canada as part of the family business that furnishes fairs with rides and attractions. At most stops along the way, he was exposed to a number of different hockey camps while his parents tended to the business.
Benson is constantly around the puck. He has great vision, and excellent hands. He makes plays in tight spaces and is constantly aware of where his best options are. On many nights he was the best player on a team full of NHL drafted players.
Jason Bukala’s scouting report: An elite, slightly undersized, offensive talent. Hard to contain. Escapes traffic and can make something out of nothing.
Dynamic on the PP making plays from the weak side flank. More quick than fast. Not always a “north/south” playmaker. He will move laterally to dissect his options and beat opponents 1-on-1 off the rush. Top line NHL scoring forward is possible.
