The 23-year-old shined in his rookie campaign, posting three goals and 15 points through 62 games. He was also a plus-8 and racked up 111 hits and 64 shot blocks.
Benning, who transitioned well from NCAA hockey to the NHL, has evident puck-moving potential. He is a good passer and skater who can move the puck up the ice and start the play from his own zone.
Coming into next season, the Oilers will need their defence to step up in wake of Andrej Sekera’s injury. Because he will be out to start the year, Kris Russell will likely be called upon to step up and take over his role on the second-pairing left side.