Emerging NHL Stars: Jamie Benn (Player Profile)

Jamie Benn is turning out to be one of the league's top young centers.

With Loui Eriksson on his wing, Benn is emerging into one of the best players that Stars have developed since the likes of Mike Modano and Brenden Morrow. Jamie is entering his fourth season with the Stars, and it’s looking like it'll be his best yet, with veteran Jaromir Jagr playing on his wing. Many believe that what Jagr did for Giroux last season, he will do for Jamie Benn.

Last year, Benn had many highlights in his third season. His best was when he beat out all five Columbus Blue Jackets players before going top shelf on Steve Mason for one of the top goals of the 2011-2012 season. Another highlight came in the Stars' home opener when he checked one of the Hawks defenders and broke the glass during that sequence.

Many don't know that Jamie Benn was drafted in the fifth round. The Stars have been known to find some gems in the fifth round, Benn being the most noticeable one. As the 2012-2013 season approaches, and if the NHL avoids a lockout, everyone will be expecting Benn to have a breakout year with Jagr.

A lot of pressure will be on the Stars as they have gone four years straight without any playoffs, and the fans are getting impatient. 

Fans will be looking at Benn to bring them back to the postseason for the first time since 2008. But will Benn be ready to carry that much pressure in just his fourth full season in the NHL at the age of 23? 

Only time will tell.

Player Profile

Born: July 18th 1989 in Victoria, BC

Height: 6'2"

Weight: 205 lbs

Shoots: Left

Junior Team: Kelowna Rockets (WHL)

Playing Style: Sniper, Physical Presence

Best Hockey Moment: Winning the gold medal for Team Canada at the 2009 World Juniors.

Fun Fact: Has a brother (Jordie), who also plays in the Dallas Stars organization