Live from Brossard this morning, the Montreal Canadiens unveiled their official lineup for Wednesday’s season opener against the Toronto Maple Leafs. While most combinations aligned with preseason expectations, one decision has sparked immediate debate among fans and analysts alike: Joe Veleno will not be part of the top four forward lines.
Head coach Martin St-Louis confirmed the following lineup during practice:
Forward Lines Caufield – Suzuki – Slafkovsky Bolduc – Dach – Gallagher Newhook – Kapanen – Demidov Anderson – Evans – Laine
Defensive Pairings Matheson – Dobson Guhle – Hutson Xhekaj – Carrier
Goaltenders Montembeault – Dobes
According to the Canadiens’ official website, Jayden Struble and Joe Veleno rounded out the group but were not included in the main combinations. Struble’s role as seventh defenseman was anticipated, but Veleno’s omission comes as a surprise to many.
The former first-round pick delivered a standout training camp, showcasing intensity, versatility, and a clear grasp of the system. His exclusion from the opening night roster raises questions about internal strategy and rotation plans.
“Veleno seemed to have earned the coaching staff’s trust,” one insider noted. “Leaving him out sends a message—whether tactical or developmental—that fans will be watching closely.”
As the Canadiens prepare to face off against the Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena, all eyes will be on how this lineup performs—and whether Veleno’s absence is a temporary move or the start of a deeper rotation narrative.