Buffalo Sabres' Zach Benson faces scrutiny over U23 ranking
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 2:10 AM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026

Corey Pronman of The Athletic recently ranked Zach Benson 124th among under-23 players, sparking controversy among hockey analysts. Cam Robinson, a Senior Crossover Scout at Elite Prospects, criticized this ranking as 'indefensible' given Benson's successful entry into the NHL at age 18 and his performance in the playoffs. Robinson highlighted the disparities in performance metrics compared to other ranked prospects. The debate continues to engage the hockey community, with many voicing their opinions on social media regarding Pronman's assessments of smaller players. Further discussion on the implications of this ranking is anticipated among analysts and fans alike.
- •Zach Benson is ranked 124th among U23 players by Corey Pronman.
- •Cam Robinson labeled the ranking as 'indefensible' during a podcast.
- •Benson performed well in the NHL and Stanley Cup Playoffs last season.
- •Debate over U23 rankings has engaged the hockey community on social media.
- •Upcoming discussions on player evaluations and rankings are expected.
- 2:10 AMYahoo Sports — Buffalo Sabres’ Zach Benson’s U23 Ranking ‘Indefensible,’ Prospect Expert Says
"Corey Pronman of The Athletic dropped an August bomb in the hockey world with the surprise of Zach Benson's U23 ranking. Benson landed behind players that he almost certainly should not have been ranked behind. The post Buffalo Sabres’ Zach Benson’s U23 Ranking ‘Indefensible,’ Prospect Expert Says appeared first on HEAVY.
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