Former Saint John Sea Dogs defenceman William Villeneuve stepped onto NHL ice for the first time Saturday night. He suited up for the Toronto Maple Leafs against the Florida Panthers.

Villeneuve becomes the 22nd former Sea Dog to play in the NHL.

The Maple Leafs drafted him in the fourth round in 2020. You remember him as a key piece of the Sea Dogs team that captured the Memorial Cup on home ice in 2022.

He spent most of this season producing solid numbers for the Toronto Marlies in the AHL. In 59 games he tallied three goals and 26 assists.

Toronto missed the playoffs this year for the first time since 2016. Management expects major roster changes this offseason. This late season call up gives Villeneuve an early audition for a permanent spot on the 2026 to 2027 roster.

Current Sea Dogs Get International Nod

The good news continues for current Saint John players. Hockey Canada named defenceman Cameron Chartrand and forward Alexis Joseph to its pre tournament camp roster for the IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship in Slovakia.

Chartrand recorded seven points in 35 regular season games and added one assist in the playoffs. Joseph had a strong year with 24 goals and 36 assists in 54 games plus three playoff assists.

The U18 tournament begins April 22 with games in Bratislava and Trencin. Hockey Canada plans to add more players once the second round of the CHL playoffs wraps up.

Read the original report on Your Saint John.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the latest former Saint John Sea Dog to play in the NHL?

William Villeneuve made his NHL debut with the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday night against the Florida Panthers.

How many former Sea Dogs have played in the NHL?

William Villeneuve is the 22nd former Saint John Sea Dogs player to reach the NHL.

Which current Sea Dogs are playing in the U18 World Championship?

Hockey Canada selected Cameron Chartrand and Alexis Joseph for the pre tournament camp roster ahead of the IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship in Slovakia.