The Montreal Canadiens are poised to bring Joe Veleno back home, signing the center to a one-year contract worth $900,000. This move is particularly special for Veleno, a Montreal native, who previously showcased his talents with the QMJHL’s Saint John Sea Dogs and Drummondville Voltigeurs during his junior career.
Veleno’s journey through the NHL has been unconventional. Drafted 30th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2018 NHL Draft, he fell from an anticipated top-10 prospect due to various factors before the draft. His junior career boasted impressive statistics, including a standout season with the Voltigeurs where he recorded 42 goals and 104 points in just 59 games, along with a +63 rating. Veleno also contributed to Team Canada in the World Junior Championships, accumulating eight points over two years.
However, Veleno’s transition to professional hockey saw him struggle to replicate his scoring prowess at the AHL level with the Grand Rapids Griffins. While he demonstrated solid defensive capabilities, aiding in defensive metrics with a 90.3% on-ice save percentage and starting 54% of shifts in the defensive zone, his offensive production lagged behind expectations. His tenure with Detroit lasted five and a half seasons, with Veleno tallying 35 goals and 74 points in 288 games while carrying a -56 rating.
Last season, he was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks but only played 18 games before being moved to the Seattle Kraken, who later bought him out this offseason.
In joining the Canadiens, Veleno may find new life in a role as a fourth-line left winger, with the flexibility to step in as a center in case of injuries among the team’s forwards, which include Nick Suzuki, Kirby Dach, and Alex Newhook. This opportunity could be a turning point for Veleno, enabling him to revitalize his career by potentially thriving in a supportive environment with the Canadiens.