“I think it’s pretty special, especially in Toronto. Looking back to when I got into this organization in 2020 four years ago, I feel grateful and lucky to be here today,” Villeneuve said. “I’m excited for the opportunity.”
Villeneuve is a former fourth-round pick of the Maple Leafs from the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. The defenceman has spent the past four full seasons as a member with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies and has posted at least 25 points in all four campaigns. Many have questioned why it has taken so long for the 6-foot-2, right-shot defenceman to get a look with the Maple Leafs, something Villeneuve was asked about prior to making his debut.
“I think everyone has their own path, own timeline, and if I look at myself from four years ago, I’m a different player and person,” Villeneuve said. “I’m confident in my game, and I’ve worked a long way for that, so I’m excited.”
Villeneuve has become a leader on the Marlies team, helping them clinch a playoff berth this season by recording three goals and 26 assists, good for the team lead among all Marlies defencemen with 29 points. The offensive prowess has always been there, dating back to Villeneuve’s junior hockey days, but the former 122nd overall draft pick touched on the areas of his game he’s really had to work on.
“I think when I got to pro, I was 6-foot-2, 170 pounds, and it’s hard to battle against guys that are 220 pounds, so I’ve just worked on becoming more physically and mentally mature,” Villeneuve said. “My defensive game and physical game has improved a lot, so I just have to go out there, not overthink, and just play my style of game that brought me here.”
“He’s a skilled guy. He skates very well, and he moves the puck. Offensive, more than the other side of it. We’ll see how it goes,” Berube said.
A NHL debut often brings many family and friends to the rink, in a moment that is bigger than just a game of hockey. Villeneuve spoke about the moment he found out he’d be suiting up with the Maple Leafs.
“I called both my dad and mom first, they’ve been so supportive since I started playing hockey, so they’re going to be here tonight,” Villeneuve said. “It’s a great morning for me, but a great morning for them too.”