Edmonton Oilers defenceman Matthew Benning may have been scratched for Game 1 of the Stanley Cup playoffs, but has shown why he belongs in the lineup.
The 22-year-old blueliner has been effective on the bottom defence pairing, posting two assists and a plus-5 rating through five games. Not to mention, he has brought plenty to the lineup, and was one of the big reasons why Edmonton put up a strong fight against the Sharks.
Edmonton Oilers
Getting Physical
Over the course of the series against San Jose, Benning threw 21 hits, which sums up to about 4.7 hits per game. Though he is only 6-foot, 200 pounds, he was a force to be reckoned with against San Jose. Not only did he pack a punch with tough partner Darnell Nurse, but he also added a sense of security through his physicality.
By the same token, Benning stacked up to the Sharks’ tough roster, including the likes of Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau and Logan Couture. He did not shy away from throwing hits, and made his presence felt every shift he was on the ice. By making the most of his ice time, Benning brought the same physicality that Eric Gryba brings and more.
Even Strength Matchup
Benning was outstanding when it came to five-on-five hockey. Though he averaged roughly 15 minutes on ice per game, 14 minutes of that time was playing at even strength. He served as a huge asset stacking up against San Jose, a team that proved most dangerous five on five. Seeing Benning able to adapt to even strength hockey shows his skillset as a depth player.
Impact
Benning has proven that he can draw in and bring just as much as Gryba does. He knows how to maintain possession of the puck, and also knows how to start the breakout. Benning is outstanding at both ends of the rink, and plays a solid game. He will surely be a key contributor against the Ducks.