The New York Rangers have signed unrestricted free-agent center Joe Veleno to a one-year, $1.2 million contract, as reported by Renaud Lavoie of TVA Sports.
The deal was finalized on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
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Veleno became an unrestricted free agent after the Montreal Canadiens declined to extend a $945,000 qualifying offer on Monday night.
The 26-year-old opted to test the open market rather than return to Montreal.
The move addresses New York's need for bottom-six center depth following a lack of internal options in Hartford.
Veleno is projected to serve as the fourth-line center under head coach Mike Sullivan.
Veleno's Performance and Role
During the 2025-26 season with Montreal, Veleno recorded two goals and three assists over 61 regular-season games.
He contributed 166 hits and 32 blocked shots while averaging 12:05 of ice time per game.
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Advanced data shows Veleno reached a maximum speed of 23.18 MPH, placing him in the 90th percentile of NHL EDGE data last season.
He also won 51.6 percent of his faceoffs, with 163 wins and 153 losses.
Over 367 career NHL games, Veleno has accumulated 40 goals, 46 assists, and 86 total points.
He is expected to skate alongside wingers Jaro Chmelar and Tye Kartye on the fourth line.
The roster adjustment follows other recent departures from Montreal, including forwards Brendan Gallagher and Patrik Laine.
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Rangers management is expected to seek a top-six center next, potentially after completing a trade involving veteran forward Vincent Trocheck.
