“Forward eager about the future after signing a new two-year contract with the Red Wings.”
After his most productive NHL season in 2023-24, Joe Veleno has a lot to reflect on both on and off the ice this summer. Following the signing of a two-year contract with the Detroit Red Wings on July 20, Veleno expressed his eagerness to achieve more in the upcoming season.
“It’s a relief to have the contract finalized,” Veleno shared with DetroitRedWings.com. “No one really wants to go through arbitration, so I’m thrilled we reached an agreement. This gives me two more years in Detroit, and I want to be here. I can’t see myself anywhere else.”
Veleno, the 30th overall pick by the Red Wings in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft, posted career highs last season with 12 goals, 16 assists, and 28 points across 80 games. The 24-year-old forward also showcased his versatility, contributing in a top-six role and on special teams when needed by the coaching staff.
“It’s been great for our depth and has kept us competitive all season, having the flexibility to play him on the wing and at center,” said Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde on March 5. “He’s extremely valuable, especially in today’s NHL.”
The #RedWings today signed forward Joe Veleno to a two-year contract with an AAV of $2.275M. pic.twitter.com/JDqJ9q2MYP
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) July 20, 2024
Reflecting on his second full season with the Red Wings, Veleno noted that he developed into a more complete player.
“My stats improved, but beyond that, I got to experience new roles,” Veleno said. “Having that experience is crucial, and I’m grateful for the opportunities. Ultimately, it’s up to me to make the most of them.”
Veleno’s self-confidence and awareness have fueled his career, and he emphasized that this new contract won’t change his approach.
“Having the security of a multi-year contract is nice, but it’s just the beginning,” Veleno said. “I’m going to keep working hard, improving my game, and staying involved in the community. We have a bright future ahead, and I want to be a part of that, help this team advance, and continue growing as a player.”
Joe Veleno scores on the delayed penalty call, and it's back to a one-goal game! 🚨#LGRW pic.twitter.com/CMHeZChnJ0
— Bally Sports Detroit (@BallySportsDET) April 17, 2024
Veleno enjoyed helping Detroit make a push for the Stanley Cup Playoffs last season, noting that the competitive intensity was something new for him in the NHL.
“We remember how close we came, and we know we can achieve the goal of making the playoffs,” Veleno said. “There was a lot of disappointment in the locker room at the end of last season.”
Training in his hometown of Montreal this offseason, Veleno is focused on improving all aspects of his game.
“I’ve been working out in the gym, skating here and there,” Veleno said. “As summer progresses, my training sessions are getting more intense, both on and off the ice. But I’m happy with how things are going, and I’ve also been enjoying the good weather, spending time with family and friends.”
Veleno is also looking forward to meeting the Red Wings’ new additions during Training Camp at Centre Ice Arena in Traverse City, Michigan, this fall.
“I’m excited to meet the new personnel and reconnect with the familiar faces from last year,” Veleno said. “I can’t wait to get back on the ice. There’s a lot of excitement, and I’m sure the boys feel the same way. The fans should be excited too—we’ve been making progress every year.”
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