‘The Sabres have watched Benson for two years. Their staff scouted the Ice in-person and poured through video leading up to the 2022 draft because they were deciding if Savoie would be their selection at ninth overall. The Ice’s coach, James Patrick, spent six of his 21 NHL seasons as a defenseman with the Sabres, and he was on the team’s coaching staff with Adams from 2011-13. Adams and everyone on his staff know what to expect from prospects who play for Patrick. The Sabres tried to trade into the top 10, but there was excitement among their staff, including the analytics department, as it became apparent that Benson might be available if they remain at No. 13.’