Joe Veleno's Difficult Start with Canadiens
The Montreal Canadiens are off to a strong start this season, currently sitting third in the NHL standings. However, some players, including Joe Veleno, have struggled to contribute as expected.
Role Uncertainty for Joe Veleno
The team faces a question about the best role for Veleno while waiting for Patrik Laine's return. Hockey analyst Pierre McGuire emphasized Veleno’s natural position:
“He's a centerman. He's not a winger.”
This lack of comfort on the wing is evident in Veleno's performance.
Offensive Struggles and Face-off Performance
- In nine games, Veleno has no points, seven shots on goal, and a minus-3 rating.
- His recent face-off statistics are unimpressive; recently going one-for-four (25%) on the fourth line.
- By contrast, teammate Jake Evans showed better results with a 58.3% face-off win rate (7 wins in 12 attempts) against the Devils.
Line Strategy and Team Roster Challenges
Martin St-Louis employs a strategy of placing two centers on opposite wings of the fourth line, which explains Veleno’s position. However, given Veleno’s discomfort on the wing and current performance, it remains unclear where he fits best. The Montreal-born player faces limited opportunities at center for now.
Author’s summary: Joe Veleno struggles offensively and with his assigned wing position as the Canadiens seek the best role for him ahead of Patrik Laine's return, highlighting roster challenges.