Story by
Why Former Canadiens Forward Could Become Rangers' Biggest Offseason Steal
- Story by
- Why Former Canadiens Forward Could Become Rangers' Biggest Offseason Steal
The New York Rangers made a smaller signing during this offseason that could end up paying dividends.
On July 1, the Rangers signed Joe Veleno to a one-year, $1.2 million contract.
Coming into the 2018 NHL Draft, Veleno had strong offensive potential, which is why he was selected late in the first round by the Detroit Red Wings.
Advertisement
However, six years into his NHL career and about to play for his fourth NHL team, that offensive potential has still not been unlocked.
One Montreal analyst believes there's promise for Veleno to make a real impact for the Rangers.
"Maybe this is that fresh start on a team that, in my opinion, is in more of a rebuilding than retooling mode," Jon Goyens said via The Montreal Gazette. "I think he can find himself quickly. It's still the NHL and people want to win … but they're far removed from their Presidents' (Trophy) of a couple years ago.
"I think he has the opportunity to start in the middle of the pack, a top-nine role. After that, it comes down to executing and being consistent. If he can do that, there have been many NHL players who have started their career at 26. He just happens to have a few hundred games under his belt."
Advertisement
In his most recent stint with the Montreal Canadiens during the 2025-26 season, Veleno played a bottom-six role, with his expanded two-way game helping him gain trust with Martin St. Louis and the Canadiens coaching staff.
The 26-year-old forward served a role on the penalty kill, and his defensive reliability led to him playing 61 out of the 82 regular-season games.
Veleno is likely to slot in as the Rangers' fourth-line center, and his newfound two-way game can help him earn a regular spot in the lineup.
If Veleno could also tap into his offensive potential to go along with his reliability in the defensive zone, the Rangers' small signing would ultimately become their biggest offseason steal.
