Why Victor Eklund Could Be The Islanders’ Version Of Zach Benson
Victor Eklund’s relentless mentality, fearless style of play, and offensive upside have drawn comparisons to Buffalo Sabres forward Zach Benson — and the Islanders may have found a similar impact play
If you have been watching the Buffalo Sabres at all during their playoff run, Zach Benson has been a menace.
Skating on the third line, the 20-year-old has recorded seven points (four goals, three assists) in 10 playoff games.
He celebrated his 21st birthday on Tuesday night, scoring a power-play goal at 4:31 of the third period, which served as the game-winner in a 3-2 victory to even the series against the Montreal Canadiens at 2-2:
Points are fantastic, but what has really stood out about Benson’s game has been his dog-on-a-bone mentality, a fearlessness despite standing at 5’10, 177 lbs.
Players — people in general — get judged by their size far too often. Benson’s lack of size is why he fell a bit in his draft year.
The Sabres drafted Benson 13th overall in 2023, and Benson turned Buffalo’s “questionable” pick into a statement.
A tad over 400 miles downstate, the New York Islanders have a similar player who is ready to break through at the NHL level.
His name is Victor Eklund.