The Montreal Canadiens’ summer was filled with headlines, but not all of their moves received the attention they deserved. While star prospects and familiar faces dominated the conversation, a quiet acquisition by GM Kent Hughes has started to stir curiosity among fans and insiders alike.

This new addition, overshadowed by bigger names, is suddenly generating buzz during training camp—and the whispers are growing louder with every practice.

In a preseason filled with surprises, certain experts and even the players themselves have begun to take notice of this under-the-radar newcomer. His presence in the locker room is being felt, and his performance on the ice is turning heads.

Some say he brings a unique energy, while others hint at skills that could make a significant impact if unlocked. It’s rare for a low-profile signing to create such excitement, especially in a city as hockey-mad as Montreal.

But what is it about this particular player that’s catching everyone’s eye? Why are respected analysts and teammates suddenly singing his praises? And could this overlooked gamble by Kent Hughes end up being the masterstroke of the offseason? As the Canadiens prepare for the season ahead, all eyes are shifting toward one intriguing storyline that’s begging for answers.

Photo of Kent Hughes

Photo credit: NHL

Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens made some interesting additions and acquisitions this summer, including one that’s flying a bit under the radar.

Zachary Bolduc is having an excellent camp, Noah Dobson is being Noah Dobson, but there’s another summer acquisition by Hughes that’s starting to make some noise.

“If Montreal can unlock Joe Veleno – look out.”

– Jeff Marek

Quietly, Joe Veleno is also having an excellent training camp with the Montreal Canadiens, and he’s starting to draw more and more attention.

He’s being talked about by certain experts (like Jeff Marek above), but he’s also making noise right in the Habs’ locker room.

Lane Hutson says Joe Veleno is a very good addition for the Montreal Canadiens, and he adds that it’s exciting to watch him play!

We love it!

Veleno really seems to have impressed Lane Hutson, who’s as well placed as anyone to judge Veleno’s abilities-since they face each other every day in practice!

Lane Hutson about Joe Veleno:

“He’s hungry. He skates well and chases the puck. He has unique skills and is exciting to watch. He’s definitely a great addition.”

– Via Patrick Friolet, RDS

We love hearing that! Especially knowing the Canadiens nearly passed on Joe Veleno before Kent Hughes stepped in.

At 25 years old, Joe Veleno recorded 17 points in 74 games last season with the Detroit Red Wings and the Chicago Blackhawks.

He was earning $2.275 million per year until 2026, but that contract was bought out by the Seattle Kraken last season (worth noting).

For $900,000 on a one-year deal, this looks like a very solid gamble by Kent Hughes! If Veleno breaks out and has a real breakthrough, it could turn into a home run.