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Another Maple Leafs Player Admits He's Unhappy

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Samer Dagher
March 14, 2024  (11:08)
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Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe
Photo credit: Toronto Star

Earlier this week, it was reported that Maple Leafs forward Nick Robertson is unhappy with his situation in Toronto. Now, it looks like a second player has admitted his discontent.

Benoit Admits He's Unhappy With Being Scratched

Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Simon Benoit is clearly unhappy with his recent lack of playing time, particularly being sidelined for the recent game against his hometown Montreal Canadiens.

This dissatisfaction stems from reduced action following the acquisitions of Ilya Lyubushkin and Joel Edmundson at the NHL Trade Deadline. Benoit openly expressed his discontent. Despite his frustration, he recognizes it as part of the game and remains committed to earning his spot back in the lineup.

Benoit on potentially being scratched a second game tomorrow in Philly as Edmundson - Liljegren experiment continues: «If you're happy sitting out, I don't think you're in the right sport. I'm not happy, but understand its part of the game. I'll do my best to get back in there."

Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe shared Benoit's disappointment, especially about sitting out in Montreal. He explained that while it pained him to make that decision, it was necessary for the team's strategy that night.

"Quite frankly, it kills me to have to sit Benoit here tonight, especially in this building," Keefe said following the team's morning skate on Saturday. "But I didn't make the schedule, and it's what's necessary for our team here tonight."

Benoit revealed that he and Keefe had a private conversation about the situation, emphasizing his focus on controlling what he can and staying prepared for when his opportunity arises.

«That (talk with Keefe) is between me and him and for the rest, I have no control how things are going, I can only control how I play," he said. "I know I'll be back in the lineup and I'll be ready.

«There are a couple of new faces, we're trying to get to know everyone. We know (post-deadline) that this is our team the rest of the year now and for the playoffs.

«It's not my first rodeo. (Healthy scratches) have been through my whole career (with Anaheim). You sit and cry about it, or you go back to work. Right now, it's given me time to touch up some stuff and be ready for playoffs or when they need me.»

He acknowledged the challenge of adjusting to new teammates post-trade deadline but remains optimistic and determined to contribute when called upon, drawing from past experiences with healthy scratches throughout his career.

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Another Maple Leafs Player Admits He's Unhappy

Do you think Benoit should be playing over Liljegren?

Yes9779.5 %
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