Seattle Kraken Prospect Focus: Matty Beniers is the Start of a Strong Foundation
After the Draft
Following the 2021 Draft, Beniers decided to return to the University of Michigan. After a disappointing end to the 2020-21 season, Matty now has the chance to have the traditional college experience he missed out on in his first year
In hindsight, returning to the NCAA was the best decision for Beniers. The Kraken could have benefited from having him on the team, but first and foremost, it is important not to rush young prospects. Ron Francis and Matty seem to be on the same page about that.
Another year with Michigan will allow him to develop in areas he needs to see improvement before taking on a big role in the NHL. He can do this in a low-stress, high talent environment, without the pressure and responsibility of having to carry an NHL team in their inaugural season as a rookie.
This season, Michigan’s roster is stacked. Fellow 2021 first-round selections Owen Power (1st), Luke Hughes (4th), Kent Johnson (5th), and Mackie Samoskevich (24th) are all joining Beniers. The team currently leads the Big Ten and seems to be in a prime position to chase a championship.
To start the season, Beniers has taken on the role of Michigan’s top-line center. In addition, he is the only underclassman to be appointed to this year’s leadership group. This speaks volumes of his character both on and off the ice.
In just 16 games, Matty has already surpassed his goal total from 2020-21. He currently leads his team in goals, is third overall in scoring, has the highest shooting percentage, has scored 7 power-play goals, and has scored 3 game-winning goals. His stellar performance earned him the first star of the week in the Big 10 for two consecutive weeks.
Matty Beniers with the moves, Brendan Brisson with the finish pic.twitter.com/ZFWVe50ggc
— Michigan Hockey (@umichhockey) November 20, 2021