Simon Benoit Not Happy Following His Recent Scratch, Reveals Who He Blames For His Situation
Photo credit: SERGEI BELSKI-USA TODAY SPORTS
Maple Leafs defenseman Simon Benoit admitted that he was not happy to be made a healthy scratch against Montreal, and has revealed who he blames for it.
As the Toronto Maple Leafs prepare to face off against one of their most heated rivals, the Tampa Bay Lightning, defenseman Simon Benoit is eager to prove he deserves a permanent spot in the lineup.
After being a healthy scratch for the last two games, Benoit took the opportunity to reflect on his performance on Monday. He also revealed that he holds only himself accountable for his absence from the ice due to his status as a healthy scratch.
As per Lance Hornby on X, Benoit admitted:
"It wasn't personal, it's part of the game. I'm more angry at myself. Obviously, not being in the lineup pisses me off, but I have to be better. It's on me. It's all about the team."
Benoit has recorded just 4 points in 43 games with the Maple Leafs this season, though he's not known for his offensive production.
His strengths lie in his physical play, as he has logged
120 hits this season and over 200 in each of the previous two seasons. He is also supposed to be a defensive defenseman, but yet the defensive aspects of his game have been lacking of late.
Benoit is slated to play on the third pairing tonight, and his performance could be crucial in determining his future with the team. Expect him to bring his best effort as he fights for his place in the lineup.
Previously on MapleLeafsDaily
POLL |
JANVIER 20 | 2484 ANSWERS Simon Benoit Not Happy Following His Recent Scratch, Reveals Who He Blames For His Situation Would you rather have Conor Timmins or Simon Benoit in your line up? |
Timmins | 593 | 23.9 % |
Benoit | 1891 | 76.1 % |
List of polls |
|
1 hour ago | By Dean Chaudhry Injured Forward Takes Huge Step Forward for Maple Leafs; Berube Provides Official Update |
|
5 hours ago | By Dean Chaudhry Canada's Brandon Hagel Dunks on Tkachuk Brothers Ahead of Rematch with Team USA |
|
7 hours ago | By Mike Armenti Team USA Shares Update on Auston Matthews, Announce Replacement for Charlie McAvoy |
|
9 hours ago | By Ryan Smitheram Maple Leafs Officially Recall Toronto Marlies Standout Amid Hot Streak |
|
9 hours ago | By Mike Armenti Canada To Enter 4 Nations Face-Off With Advantage Over USA After Unfortunate Announcement |
|
10 hours ago | By Ryan Smitheram Mitch Marner Falls Out of Favour With Team Canada Ahead of Rematch With USA |
|
11 hours ago | By Dean Chaudhry Team Finland Head Coach Reveals Who He Thinks Will Win Canada-USA Rematch |
|
13 hours ago | By Ryan Smitheram Drew Doughty Issues Warning to Matthew Tkachuk Ahead of 4 Nations Face-Off Rematch |