Joe Veleno’s departure from the Montreal Canadiens did not go unnoticed. The Quebec native shared a heartfelt Instagram message reflecting on his time with the organization, and the response from his former teammates left little doubt about the respect he earned in the locker room.
Several Canadiens players took the time to acknowledge the post, turning what could have been a quiet exit into a public show of appreciation. Arber Xhekaj was among those who reacted, as was Cole Caufield. The reactions were not limited to veterans. Younger voices and recent arrivals also weighed in, signaling that Veleno’s presence had registered across different groups within the roster.
Noah Dobson’s response stood out for its brevity and weight. The defenseman replied with a single word: “Legend.” In a social-media environment often filled with longer tributes or generic well-wishes, the one-word message carried clear intent. It suggested a level of regard that did not require elaboration. Fans quickly seized on the post, treating Dobson’s comment as a concise but meaningful endorsement of Veleno’s character and contributions.
The nickname “Weezy” appeared repeatedly in the replies. Jacob Fowler and Alexandre Carrier both used it, an affectionate shorthand that underscored the personal connections Veleno had formed. The repeated use of the nickname framed the farewells less as formal goodbyes and more as messages between teammates who shared ice time and everyday moments.
The organization itself added an official note. The Canadiens’ account posted, “All the best, Joe,” accompanied by a handshake emoji. The simple message aligned with the tone of the player reactions—respectful, straightforward, and free of exaggeration.
Taken together, the responses paint a consistent picture. Veleno’s Instagram reflection clearly resonated. Players from different roles and experience levels chose to engage publicly rather than let the departure pass quietly. Dobson’s “Legend” has drawn particular attention because of its economy and the respect it implies. In a franchise where locker-room culture is closely watched, the collective reaction offered an unfiltered glimpse of how one departing player was viewed by those who shared the dressing room with him.
Veleno’s time in Montreal ends with visible goodwill from the people who knew the day-to-day reality of the team. The messages left behind—especially that single word from Noah Dobson—have given fans a clear sense of the impression he made.