Sabres' Zach Benson is more than just a rat. He's one of the team's most important players

BUFFALO, N.Y. — The final image of the Buffalo Sabres’ first-round win over the Boston Bruins was Zach Benson grinning from ear to ear, his face covered in various cuts and scars along with his first attempt at facial hair.Benson had just been slashed by Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy after what McAvoy perceived as a slew foot from Benson going into the corner. The Sabres already had Game 6 well in hand, and there were just 90 seconds left in the game. The series was over, and McAvoy let out his frustrations on Benson, who just started laughing.Advertisement