Joe Veleno Signs with Canadiens: A Cultural Fit Under Marty St. Louis

A New Chapter Begins for Veleno in Montreal

The Montreal Canadiens added a familiar name to their roster this week, signing forward Joe Veleno to a one-year, one-way contract worth $900,000. The 25-year-old native of Kirkland, Quebec, returns home after several seasons split between Detroit and Chicago, with hopes of revitalizing his NHL career under head coach Marty St. Louis.

For Veleno, this isn’t just another stop. It’s an opportunity to be part of a team in transformation, one that’s rewriting its identity under a coach known for empowering players and building a strong locker room culture.

A Career Still in Motion

Selected 30th overall in the 2018 NHL Draft by Detroit, Veleno’s journey has had its challenges. Last season, he posted career-best numbers with 12 goals and 28 points in 82 games. But despite that progress, he found himself without a qualifying offer earlier this summer.

After brief stints in Chicago and Seattle, and a buyout that made him a free agent, Montreal came calling. For Veleno, the timing felt right.

“I didn’t have an offer from the Canadiens on July 1,” he admitted in yesterday’s interview. “But things picked up quickly, and I’m excited for this new chapter.”

Marty St. Louis A Coach Who Builds Confidence

What makes this signing more than just a depth move is the environment Veleno is stepping into. Since taking over behind the bench, Marty St. Louis has prioritized player development, creativity, and trust.

Under his leadership, players like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Lane Hutson have all taken major steps forward. Suzuki just completed a career year in points, Caufield hit personal bests in goals and assists, and Hutson tied a league record for assists by a rookie defenseman.

Veleno joins a team where players are not just given systems, but responsibility. And that fits with his mindset.

“I’ve heard only good things about the staff,” Veleno said. “They really work with players to get the best out of them. I’m looking forward to soaking in everything they have to offer.”

A Homegrown Addition with Something to Prove

There’s also something special about bringing in a player from the region. Veleno grew up on the West Island and trained alongside current Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson years ago. That familiarity can go a long way in building instant chemistry both on and off the ice.

While the Canadiens’ forward group is deep, Veleno’s versatility down the middle and experience in a bottom-six role gives him a strong shot at making the roster out of training camp. He’ll be competing with names like Jake Evans, Kirby Dach, and Alex Newhook, but his mix of skill, grit, and motivation could help him carve out a niche.

A Signing That Aligns with the Culture Shift

The Canadiens aren’t just adding talent. They’re continuing to shape the culture St. Louis has worked hard to establish. One based on communication, responsibility, and growth.

Veleno may not be a headline-making signing, but his arrival reflects exactly what this team is trying to build. A roster of players who are hungry, coachable, and ready to take the next step. If he thrives, it won’t just be a win for him. It will be another sign that the Canadiens’ cultural rebuild is working.