New Leaf admits that Jason Spezza was a big reason why he signed as a UFA, astounded by Auston Matthews in camp
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The Leafs are coming into the 2022-23 season with much of the same core intact, but to say that they're running it back is a bit of a stretch. The Buds are entering this season with two new goaltenders, likely 5 new forwards and a pair of new depth defensemen - one of whom is 595-game NHL veteran Jordie Benn.
Benn told the media on Friday that new Leafs executive Jason Spezza was a factor in his decision to sign in Toronto this summer, admitting that he's looked up to Spezz since their time together in Dallas.
"We talked when negotiations were going on. He was a big help for my brother & myself when he came to Dallas. He's not putting the gear on anymore, but he's in the mix & all the guys look up to him."
Benn on Spezza
Benn on Spezza
Benn has been around the block and has played with some highly skilled players, dating back to his time in Dallas, Montreal, Vancouver and, more recently, Winnipeg and Minnesota. But for as many stars as he's played and practiced with over the years, he knows a special player when he sees one. Auston Matthews, in Benn's own words, is a special player.
"Exactly what I thought when I was playing against him: This guy is one special player. It's God's gift, I guess. I don't know. But it's incredible to watch him every day."
-Benn on Matthews
-Benn on Matthews
The 35-year-old blueliner will continue to plug away at camp in hopes of earning himself a spot in the starting lineup when the season opens on October 12th. With Sandin's contract holdout and the injuries to Muzzin and Liljegren, he just might have a shot.
Previously on MapleLeafsDaily
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 23 | 251 ANSWERS New Leaf admits that Jason Spezza was a big reason why he signed as a UFA, astounded by Auston Matthews in camp How many games will Jordie Benn play with the Leafs in 2022-23? | ||
| 0-10 | 36 | 14.3 % |
| 11-20 | 63 | 25.1 % |
| 21-40 | 99 | 39.4 % |
| More than 40 | 53 | 21.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
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