Several experts have been making predictions about the Habs' next draft pick. While many journalists have linked forward Will Smith to the Tricolore, who already has a good relationship with general manager Kent Hughes, the possibility of Zach Benson in a Montreal uniform should not be ruled out. The Winnipeg Ice left winger is probably one of the most talented forwards in the upcoming draft. The 17 year old Chilliwack, BC native has been dominant in the WHL this season, scoring 36 goals and 62 assists in 60 games, up 35 points from last year. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/CHLHockey/status/1621151199679373312'> </a></blockquote></div> His coach, James Patrick, who has played over 1,200 games in the NHL, firmly believes that Zach Benson will dominate in the League: <q>I'm often asked: can he be a Cole Caufield, a Mitch Marner or an Alex DeBrincat? To me, the answer is yes. He's of that caliber. He clearly has a chance to be a star in the NHL.</q> Zach Benson has a great skating stroke, making him one of the most dynamic players in the CHL. The #9 also has exceptional game vision that allows him to create many scoring opportunities for his teammates. Add to that the fact that the forward has extraordinary hands that can terrorize opposing defenses and you'll quickly understand why the Habs can't afford to pass on a player of his caliber if he's still available on June 28th. Despite his young age, the Winnipeg Ice forward finished first in team scoring ahead of the likes of Matthew Savoie and Conor Geekie, both of whom were selected in the first round last year at 9th and 11th respectively. <div align='center'><blockquote class='twitter-tweet' data-lang='en'><a href='https://twitter.com/BBMHockey/status/1630638405003407360'> </a></blockquote></div> While Zach Benson is primarily known for his ability in opposing territory, the 17-year-old reiterated that he excels in both directions of the ice: <q>I consider myself a complete player. I have very good offensive instincts in my opinion, but I don't compromise defensively.</q> While his 5'10, 159-pound frame is one of the only arguments that makes some organizations doubt him, James Patrick doesn't seem to mind his colt's build as he works hard to become a better player. Source: <a href='https://www.tvasports.ca/2023/04/06/dans-la-mire-du-ch--il-est-de-la-trempe-des-caufield-marner-et-debrincat' class='link_marker' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>TVA Sports</a>