Simon Benoit signs three-year extension with the Maple Leafs

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Aaron Itovitch
March 29, 2024 (10:29)

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It was announced today that the Toronto Maple Leafs have signed defenseman Simon Benoit to a three-year extension worth $4.05 million.

Benoit has been fantastic for the Maple leafs this year after signing a one year deal in the off-season.

The gritty and physical defenseman sudden in on both the second and the third pair and has been wildly effective in his minutes.

Maple Leafs continue to sign important depth pieces to multi-year deals, including Bobby McMann.

After signing forward, Bobby McMann to a two-year extension earlier in the season, the Maple leafs are making sure to keep the players that have made them such a competitive team this season.

Outside of the core four, of Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, John Tavares, and William Nylander, players like Benoit have been a serious difference maker.

This is incredible news for Brad Treliving, Sheldon, Keefe, and the Maple Leafs, as this is already a very high-value deal.

Toronto signs Simon Benoit to 3x$1.35M extension

After starting his career with the Anaheim Ducks, but not receiving a qualifying offer last off-season, Benoit was an immediate fit the with the Maple Leafs. He brings an element of toughness and abrasiveness the team has lacked on the blue line, and fills the physical void when Ryan Reaves is not in the lineup.

Simon Benoit, signed to a 3x$1.35M extension by TOR, is a physical stay-at-home depth defenceman. Has carved out a spot for himself on the Leafs' third pair after a difficult season in ANA in 22-23. Doesn't do much with the puck but has protected the slot well. #LeafsForever�

The Anaheim Ducks are likely feeling pretty bad that they let him go for nothing considering his recent success. There is little doubt this deal will age well, and the AAV is fully buriable into the AHL if need-be.

The Maple Leafs released this statement following the extension:

The Toronto Maple Leafs announced today that the hockey club has signed defenceman Simon Benoit to a three-year contract extension. The average annual value of the contract is $1.35 million.

Benoit, 25, has skated in 54 games with the Maple Leafs this season, registering five points (one goal, four assists), after signing with the club as a free agent on August 28, 2023. Over the course of his four-year NHL career with the Maple Leafs and Anaheim Ducks, the 6'4, 205-pound native of Laval, Quebec has recorded 20 points (five goals, 15 assists) in 191 regular season games.

Benoit began his professional career as a free agent with the American Hockey League's San Diego Gulls in 2018-19.

Congrats Simon!