Quote:
Originally Posted by Flash Walken
The most concerning aspect for me is the surprising decline in play from Bennett.
Has looked incredible in a shift here or there, but I didn't expect him to take such a step back.
You had to figure Giordano would slow down at some point which would drag down his defensive partner, and with a back problem I assumed Monahan's season would get off to a slow start, but the team really needs their supposed ace in the hole on the second line in Bennett to start coming through and taking on some on-ice leadership if they are going to find success.
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I am not at all concerned about Bennett, he is a gamer.
However, I will say that (as a short-term observation only) I think the benchings have neutered him a little. I think they will be a learning lesson long-term, but they have definitely affected his confidence for now.
Having said that, let's keep in mind that he has been up against Kopitar, Getzlaf and Benn in the last 3 games. That can make anyone look average.
I think talk of moving him to the wing is silly. The Flames are still rebuilding and still developing - and that certainly includes Bennett. Anyone that expects that he is going to outplay Kopitar and Getzlaf and Benn
this year needs to re-evaluate their expectations.
Having said that, him
competing against those guys every night is definitely helping him learn how to be a better player. As fans, we need to be patient.