Nate Benoit

December 2025 – After a challenging few years in college hockey, Benoit is still searching for his footing. The defenseman transferred from North Dakota to Quinnipiac and is now at Long Island University, but the production has not followed. Through 17 games, Benoit has recorded just five assists, another slow start on the scoresheet. That said, offense has never been the calling card of his game.

Benoit plays a defense-first style, and his value is not always reflected in points. As a sixth-round pick, he was always considered a longer-term project, and his development path has been anything but traditional. While multiple transfers and a move to a lower-profile Division I program may raise red flags, the situation actually suits his skill set. LIU regularly faces top programs such as Boston University, Penn State, and Minnesota, so Benoit is frequently tasked with heavy defensive minutes. With more consistent ice time than he saw at his previous stops, this role may benefit his growth more than limited usage on a deeper roster.

At his best, Benoit is a strong, competitive defensive defenseman with a high hockey IQ. He excels in gap control, breaks up cycles effectively, and moves the puck out of danger with efficiency. He’s a team-first player who isn’t afraid to block shots or use his size to wear down opponents. The drawbacks are apparent. Offensive production has been minimal throughout his NCAA career, and his skating still needs refinement, particularly his first-step quickness.

From a fantasy perspective, Benoit is a player to avoid. Without a clear NHL path, the risk outweighs the potential reward at this stage. Kenny Kaminsky