It's becoming increasingly common for draft analysts to project classes two or three years ahead of time these days. It speaks to the skill level these young men put on display at such an early age, and it's a fun exercise that the audience now demands of the industry.

Matthew Beniers has been on the radar for quite some time. His name first popped onto the scene when he jumped to the United States National Team Development Program U18 roster as a 16-year-old back in 2018. And what an assignment that was for Beniers, who found himself riding shotgun next to Jack Hughes at evens.

Yet, despite posting terrific numbers that season, as well as in 2019-20, few considered him player destined for the top of the draft. An A-grade kid, but one more likely destined for the middle of day one.

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