Joe Veleno has reached a new stage in his career by playing an almost complete first season in the National League in 2021-2022. Although his development is not yet complete, the 22-year-old striker is hopeful of becoming an impact player.
Posted yesterday at 3:00 p.m.
First-round pick, 30e in total, from the Red Wings in 2018, Veleno has spent the last few seasons in the American League – including 46 games in Sweden during the first pandemic year, in 2020-2021.
Recalled from the Grand Rapids Griffins by the Detroit Red Wings at the end of October, the Montrealer scored a goal and an assist in his first game. He was then able to play 66 games in the Bettman circuit. The previous season, he had only taken part in 5 meetings in the red and white uniform.
“I gained a lot of experience. I had the chance to play a lot of games this year and see the difference between the American League and the National League, ”says the center player, met during the Kevin Raphaël Classic on August 6.
Veleno says he has benefited from advice from players like Dylan Larkin, Sam Gagner and Adam Erne. His playing time has hovered between 10 and 13 minutes throughout the season, then increased to over 17 minutes in the last six games.
At the end of the campaign, the Quebecer met with general manager Steve Yzerman and some coaches.
“They liked some things I did this year,” he says. There are things in which I can still improve. It’s normal. I agree with them. I think I can take it to another level, develop myself as a player. »
“I have a lot of development to do, but it will come with experience and playing time,” he continues.
Patience
The Red Wings were particularly active when the free agent market opened in July. They notably signed attackers David Perron and Andrew Copp, in addition to defender Ben Chiarot. The team, which missed the playoffs for the sixth time in as many years in 2022, appears to be accelerating its rebuilding. But from the start, Yzerman has been patient with his young players.
“There are a lot of opportunities and chances for me,” Veleno said. I want to help make the Red Wings a competitive team that will make it into the playoffs. I think it’s up to our young players, like me, and the other guys out there to take our game to another level. »
The Red Wings hired a new coach, Derek Lalonde, at the end of June. Veleno is aware that he will have to fight for a position again in a few weeks, at training camp.
“He’s a new coach, so you never know what to expect,” he said. I’m excited to get to camp, to show what I’ve done over the summer and how much I’ve grown as a player. I think if I play my game, that I have shown progress, it will be fine. »