Joe Veleno Struggles on the Wing for Canadiens
The Canadiens have started the season strong, currently sitting third in the NHL. However, some players, including Joe Veleno, have yet to show their full potential.
Veleno’s Difficult Start
Joe Veleno is facing challenges adapting to his role. In nine games, he has no points, seven shots, and a minus-3 rating.
Role Uncertainty
While the team awaits Patrik Laine's return, questions arise about how best to utilize Veleno. Pierre McGuire commented on The Sick Podcast:
“He's a centerman. He's not a winger.”
Performance Insights
Veleno’s discomfort on the wing impacts his overall play. Martin St-Louis’s tactic of using two centers on different sides of the fourth line makes sense, but Veleno’s recent performance was lackluster, winning just 25% of face-offs (one for four).
By contrast, Jake Evans showed greater effectiveness in the face-off circle, winning 58.3% (7 in 12) against the Devils.
Roster Challenges
The main issue remains that the Canadiens currently lack space for Veleno at center, limiting his ability to contribute where he plays best.
Summary: Joe Veleno’s current struggle to adapt to the wing highlights the Canadiens’ challenge in fitting him into their lineup effectively while awaiting key players’ returns.
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