Ben Chiarot
ON-ICE VALUE
Top-Four Defenseman
STRENGTHS
Physicality: Chiarot is a mean piece of business. No matter where the play is, he makes life unpleasant for the opposition. He frequently looks to crush forwards along the boards and will battle his heart out in front of his net. He’ll also drop the gloves if necessary—whether that’s in response to a questionable hit or simply to get his teammates going.
In-Zone Defense: He’s a solid defensive presence. Since he’s not asked to serve as a primary puck-mover, he can comfortably stay between his man and the net. He has a reasonably active stick and works diligently in the trenches. He’s an old-school, stay-at-home, crease-clearing rearguard.
Size: His 6’3”, 234-pound frame certainly plays into his physical and defensive contributions. He’s a big man, and he makes sure the opposition knows it by leaning on its key forwards throughout the night. With his reach and defensive conscience, he’s a capable albeit largely complementary top-four defenseman.
WEAKNESSES
Skating: Chiarot isn’t the fleetest of foot. He can get caught with his pants down in the neutral zone, while shiftier forwards can get him moving side to side in the defensive zone. He gets into trouble when he tries to play aggressively at all costs instead of playing at a more conservative depth.
Puck Management: His vision and poise with the puck leave much to be desired. If he doesn’t spot a glaringly obvious passing outlet, he’ll either chip the puck up and out or hold on to it so long that the opposition enters the picture. He doesn’t help his team control the action.
