William Villeneuve just signed a two-year extension with Toronto but a logjam on the right side means that even if he has a strong camp, he could be on the outs.
One of Toronto's longest-tenured prospects, William Villeneuve has been a staple in the Toronto Marlies lineup but has rarely ever seen time with the Maple Leafs. Only getting into three games this season, it was his first taste of NHL action and he was pretty decent though didn't have much time to show what he's got.
But he has been crushing it for the Marlies and this past season was a crucial reason why they were able to hoist the Calder Cup. Exploding for 23 points in 24 postseason games, Villeneuve showed that he can be a deadly force on the power-play, while also being someone who can add to the team's mobility and youth.
He's going to be at camp no doubt and there's a serious opportunity for him to make the team, though with how Toronto has structured their team this offseason then there's potentially no spot for him on the roster.
The right-side logjam is lowering Villeneuve's chances of making the Maple Leafs
Right now, Toronto is expected to run with Darren Raddysh, Chris Tanev, and Troy Stecher on the right side of the blueline while also still employing righty Philippe Myers.
Their immense level of NHL experience is already going to be an advantage and we still have no idea how Villeneuve's game will translate. He's been great in the AHL but needs to be given time to grow - time he may not have.
Granted, there's always injury concerns (especially with Tanev) and that would open up a door there for Villeneuve but that isn't guaranteed and we could see a healthy Tanev for a full season. Plus the team can always use Oliver Ekman-Larsson on the right side as he has experience there, so really you've got too many guys.
If he doesn't make the team out of camp and sparingly plays for the Maple Leafs, then it could be a sign that the team only views him as an elite AHL talent who can step in for emergency purposes; not great for a very solid prospect with a proven and needed skillset.
Trading Villeneuve is risky but it may be the only way to give him time
Getting a shot is going to be tough and he very well may not get it in Toronto and a trade may be best for both parties. You've got teams who would be willing to take a flier on Villeneuve and perhaps give the Maple Leafs a player they can slot in now.
But that comes with the chance he becomes everything that the team expected of him and more. If he finds himself as a stud somewhere else then not only does Toronto look bad for giving him away; it shows their faith in prospects is certainly a mixed bag.
Though with so many people locked in and having more experience, then John Chayka may feel it necessary to deal Villeneuve if he can't find a spot for him. And after five years, he's likely got only one shot left.
Should William Villeneuve be given a shot on the Maple Leafs in 2026-27?
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