Canadiens roster squeeze pushing Joe Veleno toward possible exit in Montreal

Joe Veleno appears to be quietly heading toward the exit with the Montreal Canadiens, and it is a reality we have to face this morning.

The Bell Centre infirmary is finally empty following Alex Newhook’s return, which is forcing Martin St-Louis to make difficult decisions for his lineup.

This renewed depth creates an obvious congestion up front, complicating the management of ice time for several support players.

We are even seeing regulars like Zachary Bolduc and Alexandre Texier having to watch certain games from the press box.

For the Quebec-born center, this abundance of talent changes the equation.

The presence of Phillip Danault and Jake Evans, both fully healthy, greatly limits opportunities for number 90.

These two veterans occupy the defensive roles with an efficiency that leaves very little room for maneuver within the hierarchy.

We have to be honest with ourselves: the acquisition of Phillip Danault has had a direct impact on Veleno’s usage within the group.

Tight roster management for Kent Hughes

The Canadiens will soon have to make a decision, as the unrestricted free agent market is approaching quickly for the young forward.

Kent Hughes must think about the future and make room for the organization’s prospects who are knocking on the locker room door.

Quite simply, Joe’s offensive production has remained modest this season with only four points in 49 appearances.

On the ice, it has been difficult for the left-shooting skater to assert himself consistently despite his excellent top speed.

The offensive impact expected from him has not quite reached the heights hoped for by the coaching staff and the fans.

With Phillip Danault excelling in the faceoff circle, Veleno’s role becomes less defined during key moments of the game.

The end of a chapter in Montreal seems increasingly likely to allow the player to relaunch his career elsewhere.