Sam Bennett
ON-ICE VALUE
Middle-Six Forward
STRENGTHS
Instincts: Bennett is a versatile offensive threat who positions himself well to support his teammates in all three zones. Though he doesn’t boast the greatest finish, he’s adjusted by driving the net more regularly to cash in on higher-percentage looks. He’s also a clever close-quarters passer who takes a direct approach to chance generation.
Physicality: Don’t be fooled by his 6’1”, 195-pound frame. Bennett has become one of the more devastating hitters in the league. He isn’t consistent in his nastiness, but if he activates seek-and-destroy mode, you’d better keep your head up. Whether that’s along the boards or in open ice, he’ll bowl you right over.
Playoff Performer: Bennett is one of those rare forwards who appear to be built for war, elevating his game as the intensity of the playoffs sets in. He vaults from a 30-point enigma to a 55-point, two-way monster in the postseason. He battles his heart out in the trenches and taps into the full potential of his skill set. He’ll drag his teammates into the fight.
WEAKNESSES
Consistency: Unfortunately, this on/off issue has stifled his progression since Calgary selected him fourth overall in 2014. Some nights, he looks like an absolute force out there. Other nights, he blends into the background. In fairness, his coaches switching him back and forth from center to wing hasn’t exactly helped.
Discipline: Bennett is guilty of lazy infractions. Moreover, he occasionally crosses the line entirely. And when he sees red, there’s no talking him down. He might steamroll a defenseless player in the corner or launch upward into a brutal open-ice hit. In order to maximize his impact, he needs to play hard while keeping his temper in check.
