Matt Benning Placed on Waivers, and Another Former Oiler Warns Not to Claim Him

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Liam McCormick
November 11, 2024 (2:47 PM)

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Former Oiler Matt Benning has found himself on waivers today after being traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs two weeks ago.

Benning is a 30 year old right shot defenceman that's played 464 games in his NHL career, and is under contract for the next two seasons at $1.25M.

The Edmonton native Benning began his career with the Oilers in the 2016-17 season, and went on to play 4 seasons with the team as a depth defenceman. Since then, he's spent time with the Nashville Predators and San Jose Sharks.

Despite being waved by the Leafs, many fans and analysts still believe Benning can be a serviceable defenceman. The Oilers are obviously looking for a defender, but they need someone who moves the needle more than Benning - they already have depth with Dermott and Stecher.

Former NHL defenceman Jason Demers, who played one game with the Oilers, was heavily against the idea of claiming Benning.

»No. No, I'm sorry. I'm sure he could be a good human being, and played in the NHL, but no. He's not an NHL defenceman anymore. Unfortunately he's not. I would not touch him.»
- Jason Demers, Oilers Nation

Even if injuries begin to arise, the Oilers still have an extra on their roster and could survive with some AHL call ups for a short period, they simply don't need another depth player making $1.25M. There could however be a fit for Benning in Nashville, another former team of his that just lost Dante Fabbro to waivers.

The Oilers need to set their sights higher for an impact defenceman that's likely going to come by trade, not waivers. Still, Oilers fans will be wishing the best for Matt Benning, and that his NHL career may continue.