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Head coach Sheldon Keefe has rave reviews on Jordie Benn's first two games as a Leaf

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Bradley Celsie
November 16, 2022 (11:01)

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When the Leafs signed Jordie Benn to a one-year, league minimum contract this past offseason, many expected it was just a move to add defensive depth. His tenure in Toronto started off rocky after he was injured early in training camp and missed the start of the season. But after playing his first two games for the Buds, Sheldon Keefe praised the veteran on what he is bringing to the table. Keefe even called Benn a very important add for them this summer.

"I think his personality is the big one. It's not often you can add a depth defenseman like that to come in when you have injuries, have him step right in, and bring life to your room and bench. That is part of who he is. It's a big part of his career. It allows him to just step into situations despite not playing a lot this season with the injury that he had to go through. He spent some time with the Marlies, but he hasn't been around our group a lot. He steps right in and he is comfortable and confident to play as much as you need him to.

He has given us really good minutes. He was a very important add for us in the offseason."

- Sheldon Keefe on Jordie Benn

Through two games, Benn has recorded a goal, an assist, 6 shots on goal, 10 hits and 6 blocked shots while averaging 19 minutes and 15 seconds of ice time. During last night's win against the Penguins, he was particularly impressive playing alongside Morgan Rielly. He played 21 minutes and 15 seconds, registering 6 hits and 5 blocked shots and had one goal line save off of Sidney Crosby.

While his Maple Leafs career is off to a good start offensively, it is not safe to assume that will continue for the 35-year-old. Benn's single season career high is 5 goals and 22 points, which he set in the 2018-19 season with the Montreal Canadiens. That said, if Benn can continue to play this well defensively, blocking shots and clearing the front of the net, he can be a huge help going forward for this team. Additionally, Keefe clearly likes the personality he brings and energy he provides to the team. Any offense he supplies should be considered a bonus.

Previously on MapleLeafsDaily

Keefe touches on the team's effort in Pittsburgh; identifies one player as having really stood out

Justin Holl delivers stiff cross-check to teammate during game against the Pens

NHL officials show their incompetence with phantom high-sticking penalty call on Leafs forward Denis Malgin

POLL
16 NOVEMBRE \| 229 ANSWERS Head coach Sheldon Keefe has rave reviews on Jordie Benn's first two games as a Leaf Has Jordie Benn solidified a permanent spot in the Leafs D corps?
Yes, he stays in	172	75.1 %
I have not seen enough yet	46	20.1 %
No, he is just depth	11	4.8 %
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