Interesting statement about Will Smith and Zach Benson that speaks volumes about the potential of the young forwards

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Elias Edmonson
June 19, 2023 (8:46 PM)

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While many experts assert there is a well-defined top-5 in the 2023 Draft class (Connor Bedard, Adam Fantilli, Leo Carlsson, Will Smith, and Matvei Michkov), Anthony Martineau does not completely agree. In fact, during his appearance on "The Sick Podcast With Tony Marinaro", the journalist from TVA Sports made a major statement about the potential of Zach Benson.

According to him, the forward from Winnipeg Ice should not be seen as a consolation prize for the team that will draft him on June 28. He firmly believes that Zach Benson has the potential to become a leading forward in the NHL, stating that there is rather a "Big Six" in view of this year's draft.

"If the Canadiens don't want to pick Michkov, Kent Hughes should select Benson. Otherwise, the Tricolore should make a trade because there's a huge gap between the first six, including Benson, and all the other players available in the draft."

Anthony Martineau did a colossal job at the NHL Combine, meeting the prospects for the upcoming draft, having followed their progress throughout the year. He is indeed convinced that Zach Benson is as talented as the American Will Smith, who is one of the fan favorites of the Canadiens.

"I think Zach Benson is as good as Will Smith or very close to him in terms of offensive potential. I'm really not worried about his small size, as he plays like a player with a big build. When you're 16 or 17 and you can be the best offensive player on your team with players like Matthew Savoie and Connor Geekie, that means a lot to me. I met him at the Combine and he knows his hockey very well, he has a great attitude, and he knows what he needs to work on this summer. For me, after Matvei Michkov, it's Zach Benson."

Zach Benson had an exceptional season in the WHL this year, collecting 36 goals and 62 assists in just 60 games, finishing 3rd in the league's top scorers. Do you believe that Kent Hughes should select him if the staff doesn't wish to draft Matvei Michkov with the fifth pick?

Sources : The Sick Podcast With Tony Marinaro