Red Wings Have a Friend in Ben

Like most of the Detroit Red Wings, defenseman Ben Chiarot was looking for a bounce-back performance on Saturday.

“We challenged Benny because he probably, well, he didn’t have his best night against the Islanders the other night (in Detroit’s 5-0 loss),” Detroit coach Todd McLellan said. “But he really responded well and I thought he played a heavy, hard game (in Saturday’s 4-3 win over Columbus).”

The 6-foot-3, 222-pound Chiarot responded in his usual manner. He was a physical presence on the Detroit blueline.

“They have some real big bodies in and around the net that you have to find ways to control,” McLellan said. “We had some size out of the lineup (minus the ailing Simon Edvinsson), so that was going to be a bit of a concern. But Benny responded really well.”

Chiarot’s response was also delivered unusually for him. He was contributing to the offense, helping to spark Detroit’s comeback from a 3-1 deficit.

Benny makes it a one-goal game! #LGRW pic.twitter.com/8vh8aAOvez

— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) November 22, 2025

Midway through the third period, Chiarot pounced on a loose puck from a shot block and drove it into the Blue Jackets’ net, narrowing the Columbus lead to 3-2.

Chiarot Not Generally An Offensive Force For Red Wings

The goal was just the second of the season for the 34-year-old veteran. While he’s certainly not going to be confused for Cale Makar or Brent Burns, Chiarot has twice scored five goals in a season for Detroit. His career high is nine goals, with the Montreal Canadiens in 2019-20.

“You don’t really expect Benny to be the offensive juggernaut,” Red Wings goalie Cam Talbot said.

Ben Chiarot leading by example. Single handedly boosting team. Desparately needed.

The goal….then aggressive solo breakout followed by a heavy hit on the defense to spark team…..lead to a PP.

Seider ties game on PP…thanks to Chiarot forcing momentum change.

LEADER pic.twitter.com/Yx8i91G928

— Zavid Lynch (@Cosmicneurons13) November 22, 2025

What they do expect from Chiarot is what they generally get – quiet, effective veteran leadership. It’s one of the reasons why McLellan opted to slot Chiarot in alongside rookie Axel Sandin Pellikka.

“He’s just been a leader on and off the ice this entire year,” Talbot said. “And playing with Axe every night, he’s really helping him come along.”

As much as the Red Wings appreciate Chiarot’s offensive forays, they’re happiest that he keeps his main focus on what he does best for the club. Chiarot is second on the club in hits (49) and in blocked shots (45).

“He does have some offensive instincts,” McLellan said. “He can shoot the puck. But he knows his primary responsibility is to take care of big bodies and shut people down.”