Two weeks following Toronto Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving’s contract extension for forward Bobby McMann, a similar deal was offered to defenseman Simon Benoit. Hockey Insider Chris Johnston revealed that Benoit signed a three-year extension with a $1.35 Million annual salary cap hit, matching McMann’s deal from March 13. Benoit, who joined the team last summer on a one-year contract, has proven himself as a reliable bottom pairing defender and has shown potential to step up if needed. Like McMann, Benoit was undrafted but took a different path to the NHL through the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and AHL. Despite his limited offense, Benoit’s physical presence and recent improvement in puck control have been noticeable to Maple Leafs fans. The $1.35 Million cap hit allows flexibility for the team to move him to the AHL without affecting the NHL roster.
