The Montreal Canadiens have made a move that’s sending ripples through their depth chart and stirring up debate among fans and analysts alike. Earlier this week, the Canadiens took advantage of a unique opportunity, signing centerman Joe Veleno to a one-year, one-way contract after the Seattle Kraken bought out his previous deal. By securing Veleno at a discount, Montreal has added a versatile, NHL-ready forward to their lineup—one who is expected to compete directly for the same roster spot eyed by promising young prospect Owen Beck.

While Veleno’s arrival brings valuable experience and depth to the Canadiens’ center position, it also raises serious questions about Beck’s immediate future with the team. The 21-year-old Beck, who has shown flashes of brilliance with the Laval Rocket and even made a handful of appearances with the Canadiens last season, now faces a steeper climb to secure a regular role under head coach Martin St. Louis.

With Veleno’s signing, the competition for a center spot in Montreal has never been fiercer, and the pressure is on for Beck to prove he belongs. Is this a setback for the Canadiens’ young talent, or just another challenge on the road to NHL stardom?

Mar 8, 2025; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Montreal Canadiens center Owen Beck (62) skates with the puck against the Calgary Flames during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images

Earlier this week, the Montreal Canadiens announced a solid depth acquisition, thanks in fact to the Seattle Kraken.

Kent Hughes announced the signing of left-handed centerman Joe Veleno to a one-year deal.

We’re also talking about a one-way contract here.

That means, because the Kraken bought out the contract that paid Veleno $2.3 million per year, the Canadiens were able to sign him at a discount – or near the league minimum salary in the NHL.

Experts continue to analyze the impact of this acquisition, and it’s becoming clear that this could represent bad news for young Owen Beck.

Joe Veleno Acquisition Announced by the Montreal Canadiens: Bad News for Owen Beck

It’s obvious that Veleno is directly stepping into the same role Beck is eyeing. Both are targeting exactly the same position, and it’s not like Veleno is all that old either.

“I didn’t see it from this perspective initially, but I wonder what signing Veleno means for Kapanen/Beck. Especially for Beck because if he were to make the jump, it likely would be next season..

– HFTV

And for now, Veleno seems to be ahead of Beck for a spot in Montreal!

It’s also somewhat bad news for Oliver Kapanen, but to a much lesser extent.

Owen Beck, 21 years old, is a 6-foot, 200-pound right-handed centerman who was selected 33rd overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2022 (second round), and who recorded 44 points in 64 games with the Laval Rocket in 2024-25.

He also added one point in 12 regular season games with the Canadiens.

And you – do you believe Beck will eventually become a regular centerman for Martin St. Louis?