The anticipation in Montreal has reached a fever pitch as the Canadiens prepare to kick off their season against their storied rivals, the Toronto Maple Leafs.

This morning, live from Brossard, the team’s official lineup was unveiled—setting social media abuzz and igniting heated debates among fans and analysts alike.

But beneath the surface of familiar names and expected pairings, a single, unexpected omission has sent shockwaves through the hockey community.

As head coach Martin St-Louis revealed his forward lines and defensive pairings, one notable absence stood out, leaving observers scrambling for answers.

Despite an impressive training camp that showcased his skill, intensity, and adaptability, Joe Veleno found himself on the outside looking in. For some, this decision defies logic; for others, it hints at deeper strategies and possible shakeups in the days to come.

What’s truly behind this surprising move? Is it a calculated risk, a message to the locker room, or simply the start of a season-long rotation?

The answers remain shrouded in mystery, fueling speculation and anticipation ahead of Wednesday night’s opener. As the puck drops at Scotiabank Arena, all eyes will be on Montreal—not just for the action on the ice, but for the story unfolding behind the scenes.

Canadiens logo (left) Maple Leafs logo (right)

Photo credit: All Habs / NHL

Live from Brossard this morning, the Montreal Canadiens revealed their lineup at practice, one day before their season opener against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The forward lines and defensive pairings were published on the official NHL website, and in my opinion, one big surprise stands out: Joe Veleno was not among the four main forward lines.

“Here are the lines and defense pairings featured by head coach Martin St-Louis:”

Caufield – Suzuki – Slafkovsky,
Bolduc – Dach – Gallagher,
Newhook – Kapanen – Demidov,
Anderson – Evans – Laine.

Matheson – Dobson,
Guhle – Hutson,
Xhekaj – Carrier,

Montembeault – Dobes

In addition, according to the club’s official website, Jayden Struble and Joe Veleno rounded out the group, but without direct participation in the main combinations.

“Jayden Struble and Joe Veleno completed the group.

The team opens its regular season against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday night at Scotiabank Arena.” – Montreal Canadiens

Joe Veleno Left Out Despite an Excellent Montreal Canadiens Training Camp

For Struble, this is not a surprise: the young defenseman was already expected to be the seventh defender, ready to step in if needed.

But in Veleno’s case, it’s a different story, I think.

The former first-round pick had a perfect camp, showing strong intensity and exceptional versatility.

I find that seeing him left out for the opening game would be a surprising decision.

It’s a curious choice, especially since Veleno, until now, seemed to have earned the coaching staff’s trust.

Wednesday’s game against the Maple Leafs could therefore set the tone for an interesting rotation early in the season.