“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,” an anonymous source remarked, highlighting the urgency surrounding Joe Veleno’s contract situation.
Veleno, currently a depth forward for the Montreal Canadiens, has become a focal point as the team looks to secure its future. Kent Hughes, the General Manager, has been praised for his strategic decisions, yet the lack of movement on Veleno’s extension raises eyebrows.
The Canadiens, one of the youngest teams in the NHL, began their rebuilding phase four years ago. This approach has allowed the Canadiens to assemble a competitive roster, notably one of the youngest in the NHL. With a top line under contract until 2030 for a combined 23.4 million USD, the team’s financial structure is becoming clearer.
Hughes has previously extended Alexandre Texier’s contract, which adds to the anticipation surrounding Veleno’s situation. The Canadiens’ top-four defensive unit is also locked in for a similar duration, totaling just 29.5 million USD.
As the NHL salary cap is projected to increase significantly in the near future, the Canadiens are expected to free up approximately 17.5 million USD by the end of the 2026-2027 season. This financial foresight positions the Canadiens to be a Stanley Cup contender for many years to come.
With Veleno’s contributions evident in his 74 games played, the pressure is mounting for Hughes to act. The combined impact of players like Suzuki and Hutson is considered greater for a team, further emphasizing the need for strategic contract management.
As fans and analysts await news on Veleno’s future, the urgency for Hughes to make a decision grows. The Canadiens’ trajectory hinges on these pivotal contract negotiations, and the clock is ticking.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the timeline for Veleno’s extension, but the stakes are undeniably high for the Montreal Canadiens as they navigate this crucial juncture.