Hi everyone.
Joe Veleno
For me it all started with Veleno. He had PPG progression every year in the Q. He was an important factor in the Sea Dogs President Cup win with 8 goals in the playoffs tied for 3rd best in his team at age 17.5.
This year was as we all know a two part year. The worst team in the league and then one of the best. Would have probably scored 100+ pts with the Voltigeurs alone. And scored more than 30 goals. Based on his 33 games stint with them.
With those info, I add that Veleno is a center, and for me centers are the most important players in the NHL. So when you have the chance to draft them, you do. Also, this draft is weak in the C position and rich in the D position. So for me it's just easier for him to get into the 1st round, let alone the top 15.
But then I start reading about him here, every time someone post. I scout the Voltigeurs playoff run. The U18. I'm reading FC draft book, Hockey News draft book and the Black Book. I get very confused.
The Hockey News seem to label him as a playmaker with good upside. FC is the same thing. Labels him as a terrific playmaker with room to grow. Then I come across the Black Book. First of all the ranking out of the top 31 shock me.
What I really like about the BB, is the little notes from the scout. This for me tells everything. Most of them says he will end up being a 3rd liner. Some says he will become a winger because of poor hockey sense. Others talk PK guy.
What I see in him is just the begining. I can't believe this guy cannot improve year after year from 18 to 21. He did it in the Q from 16 to 18. I see a lot of commentary about his excellent work ethic and commitment to be a better player every year.
He has excellent wheels and vision. He is a playmaker and it's alright because he is a center.
He was 23rd for SOG by forward. Considering there's 18 teams and 6 spots on top 6, he was 23rd out of 108 top 6 players. For a guy that lack scoring, he's trying.
So that's where I'm at now. I was putting him in the same class of talent as Farabee and Hayton. But now I have doubt to the extend of where I wouldn't pick him before those two because of all the negative things I keep hearing about him not scoring enough and only being good for his skating and passing abilities.
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