Xavier Veilleux

January 2025 – With their sixth-round selection in the 2024 NHL draft, the New York Islanders took a swing at a solid two-way Canadian defenseman, Xavier Veilleux. This pick is a solid choice for a late-round pick who could become an impactful bottom-pair defenseman in the NHL. He will take some time to develop as he will be playing this season in the USHL before moving to the NCAA for likely three or more seasons; about a month ago, Veilleux committed to Cornell University, where he will play starting next season. Veilleux is playing this season with the Muskegon Lumberjacks, and through his first 31 games, he has produced 18 points (five goals and 13 assists). Additionally, he has done a good job keeping points off the board on a strong USHL team that just got stronger, adding 2025 draft-eligible forward Ivan Ryabkin. Veilleux has won defenseman of the week once in 2024-25 and will try to keep his strong season going. His hockey IQ could offer some NHL upside. William Langstaff