The Top 25 Under 25 is a collaboration by members of the Die By The Blade community. 92 readers ranked Buffalo Sabres players under the age of 25 as of August 1, 2026. Each participant used their own metric of current ability and production to rank each player.
Born: 5/12/2005 (Age: 21) Chilliwack, British Columbia, CAN
2025-2026 stats: GP 65 G 13 A 30 PTS 43 +27, Buffalo Sabres
2025 T25U25 Ranking: 2nd last year
I had Zach Benson last year when he was ranked #2 and I get him again at #1 in the 2026 rankings. What I said about him last season still holds true.
“Benson brings high energy to the rink and is stong on the forecheck, even at his limited size. (5’10” and 177 pounds now UPDATED) He is a physical sparkplug out there, not afraid of contact. He does take some bad penalties sometimes, which he needs to work on. But he also takes some highly questionable phantom calls as well. Frequently, it really feels like the referees are targeting this little fella of ours. He just wants to be an UNDERSIZED TERROR, let him play his game!
Zach also has the heart of a lion and a good motor on him. He can be chirpy out there too and is always in on any scrum that develops.”
Benson did cut down on the penalties last season, while his offense took a major step forward. Benny popped off for 13 goals and 30 assists, totaling 43 points in just 65 games—all career highs.
Taz also registered five goals and nine points in 13 playoff games, where fans outside of Buffalo really began to take notice. It wasn’t just the points he piled up, either. His relentless forechecking, non-stop motor, and incredible work ethic were on full display.
Benson really elevated his reputation during the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, despite what some fool who works at The Athletic had to say a few weeks back. He has elite vision and puck distribution all while earning praise as a “bulldog” for his high-energy style of play, physical board battles, and clutch scoring.
Taz is a wonderful pest to have on our team and he is one of the better two-way young forwards in the NHL. I believe he can light the lamp even more going forward and I think a 60 point season is in the cards for Mr. Benson this year. He will get plenty of playing time in the top-six.
Taz Fun Fact: Benson ranked second in the NHL behind Connor McDavid (10.57) in miles skated per 60 on the penalty kill (10.25).
