The Buffalo Sabers signed first overall pick Zach Benson, 13th overall, to an entry-level draft.
Benson had 36 goals and 62 assists for 98 points in 60 games with the Winnipeg Ice of the Western Hockey League (WHL) last year.
The 18-year-old native of Chilliwack, British Columbia is undoubtedly very talented, but it was his size (5 feet 9 inches and 163 pounds) that made him slip at the last amateur auction.
” We think that [Zach Benson] has high potential. It’s very rare to get this kind of player at this rank in the draft, “said Sabers general manager Kevyn Adams.
In Winnipeg, Benson played on the same line as Matt Savoie, who was also drafted by the Sabers in the first round, but in 2022.
“We spent the whole year together. To now be able to share the same NHL jersey, it’s surreal and I’m thrilled,” commented Benson following his selection last June. The two forwards have combined forces for 74 goals and 193 in 2022-23.
“Some people are born to be hockey players. They are winners and they have an unparalleled passion and desire to win for the game. Benson is one of those people,” Adams concluded.
