Matt Benning could only be passing through Toronto since the Maple Leafs intend to trade him, just a few days after making his acquisition.
On Wednesday, the Queen City team granted defenseman Timothy Liljegren’s wish by sending him to the San Jose Sharks. In doing so, she shed a big contract while also getting back some draft picks and Benning.
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However, the 30-year-old guard would not be in the plans either, according to what Sportsnet journalist Elliotte Friedman reported on Saturday. The Leafs are reportedly looking to “do the right thing” by giving Benning a real chance to establish himself in the National Hockey League.
It seems that it is not in Toronto that the young veteran has an opportunity since he has not yet played. Philippe Myers and Jani Hakanpaa, who is recovering from an injury in the American Hockey League, are already additional options on the blue line.
Benning had to settle for a supporting role in San Jose after missing almost the entire 2023-24 season. The former Edmonton Oilers and Nashville Predators commands a salary of $1.25 million until the end of the next campaign.
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