“If Hughes was quick to extend Texier’s contract, I wonder what he’s waiting for to offer an extension to ‘our guy’—he brings great depth and is a pro in his work ethic and attitude,” remarked an anonymous source, highlighting the urgency surrounding Joe Veleno’s contract situation.
Veleno, currently a depth forward for the Montreal Canadiens, has been a key player as the team navigates its rebuilding phase, which began four years ago. Kent Hughes, the General Manager of the Canadiens, has a history of making timely contract extensions, having previously secured Alexandre Texier’s deal.
The Canadiens are recognized as one of the youngest teams in the NHL, trailing only the Chicago Blackhawks. This youthfulness is a strategic choice, allowing the team to build a competitive roster for the future.
Currently, the Canadiens’ top line is under contract until 2030 for a combined total of 23.4 million USD, while their top-four defensive unit is locked in for a similar duration, totaling just 29.5 million USD. This financial foresight positions the Canadiens to be a Stanley Cup contender for many years to come.
As the team prepares for the upcoming seasons, they are projected to free up approximately 17.5 million USD by the end of the 2026-2027 season, coinciding with an expected significant increase in the NHL salary cap.
Hughes’ decisions in the coming months will be crucial, especially concerning Veleno, who has played 74 games and contributed to the team’s dynamics. The combined impact of players like Nick Suzuki and Lane Hutson is considered greater for the team’s overall performance.
With the Canadiens’ strategic planning and financial flexibility, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Hughes will navigate the contract negotiations for Veleno and other key players.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the timeline for Veleno’s extension, but the anticipation continues to build as the Canadiens look to solidify their roster for the future.
