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WATCH: Matt Benning on ice for his first practice with Maple Leafs post Sharks trade
Matt Benning took to the ice for his first practice with the Toronto Maple Leafs after being traded from the San Jose Sharks. NHL insider Mark Masters shared a video of Benning skating with his new teammates.
In Masters' tweeted video, Benning was donning a Maple Leafs practice jersey. Masters wrote,
“Matt Benning getting set for his first practice with the Leafs.”
The trade, made on Wednesday, sent Benning and two draft picks to Toronto, a 2025 third-round pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick. In exchange, the Sharks received defenseman Timothy Liljegren. This move helps the Leafs with their salary cap, as Benning has a $1.25 million cap hit compared to Liljegren’s $3 million.
Benning’s stats with the Sharks this season include a minus-5 rating, nine hits, 10 blocked shots, and seven shots on goal across seven games. While he may find it challenging to secure a spot in the lineup, his physical play adds depth to the Leafs’ blue line.
This is Benning’s fourth NHL team. He started with the Oilers, then moved to the Nashville Predators before joining the Sharks. Two years ago, he had a career season with 24 points in 77 games, playing an average of 19:47 per game. This year, his ice time has significantly dropped, suggesting he had fallen out of favor with the Sharks.
Matt Benning joining Toronto Maple Leafs under high expectations
Matt Benning has joined the Toronto Maple Leafs who are facing high expectations. The team has a record of 6-4-1 and is third in the Atlantic Division with 13 points. They are behind Florida, who has 15 points, and Tampa Bay, with 14 points. The Maple Leafs are playing well, winning their last two games.
In their latest game, the Leafs won 4-1 against the Seattle Kraken at Scotiabank Arena. William Nylander scored two goals to help the team. Matthew Knies scored the first goal late in the first period. He tapped in a pass from Mitch Marner after a face-off win by Auston Matthews.
Nylander scored his first goal early in the second period. He shot from close range after receiving a pass from Morgan Rielly. He scored again in the second period, finishing a pass from John Tavares while Tavares was spinning on one knee.
Eeli Tolvanen scored for the Kraken, making it 3-1 late in the third period. Then, Auston Matthews added an empty-net goal to seal the win.
Benning's physical play can strengthen the Maple Leafs' defense as they look to keep winning.
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