Toronto Marlies Defenceman William Villeneuve Embraces Simplicity in Pursuit of NHL Dream
As the American Hockey League season approaches its conclusion, Toronto Marlies defenceman William Villeneuve is refining his approach to the game, focusing on fundamental improvements to enhance his chances of reaching the National Hockey League. The 23-year-old blueliner, selected by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the fourth round of the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, recognizes that adopting a more straightforward style could be the key to unlocking his professional potential.
Patience and Development: Gruden's Guidance for Villeneuve
Marlies head coach John Gruden emphasizes that Villeneuve's path to the NHL requires continued growth and patience. "He's still young for a defenceman at 23," Gruden noted during a recent practice session. "He has to continue to work on the defensive part of the game and move pucks, be more automatic under duress." Gruden's philosophy for developing defencemen centers on consistency and minimizing errors, advising players to avoid being noticed for mistakes rather than spectacular plays.
The coach identified specific areas where Villeneuve must improve to earn an NHL opportunity. "He gets himself in trouble when he tries to do too much," Gruden explained. "Sometimes he gets in trouble by not reading plays quick enough and then getting out-muscled sometimes in front of the net. If he can clean those two things up … he has the puck ability and he can make plays."
Villeneuve's Self-Assessment and Seasonal Challenges
Villeneuve acknowledges that his 2025-26 campaign has presented obstacles, including a bout of mononucleosis that sidelined him during December. "It's been a challenging year a little bit physically," Villeneuve admitted. "I don't think my game has been exactly what I wanted it to be. But I'm turning a corner and trying to focus on the last stretch of the season and be the player that I know I can be."
The defenceman believes his development hinges on quicker decision-making and defensive reliability. "It's about being a little bit more direct," Villeneuve said. "I think my defending has been a little bit better, but sometimes when you start overthinking, you don't move the puck as quick." A recent recall to practice with the Maple Leafs provided valuable experience and motivation. "It was good to get up there and practise with the big boys," Villeneuve shared. "I'm grateful for the opportunity. I was waiting for that moment and that was a lot of fun. It's a little boost of confidence."
Michael Pezzetta Maintains Positive Outlook Amid Adversity
Meanwhile, Marlies forward Michael Pezzetta navigates a difficult first season with the Toronto organization. After signing a two-year contract with the Maple Leafs last summer following four seasons with the Montreal Canadiens, Pezzetta anticipated competing for an NHL roster spot. Instead, the 27-year-old Toronto native was assigned to the AHL after training camp and has been limited to 31 games due to multiple practice injuries.
"It has definitely been up and down," Pezzetta reflected. "When I'm playing, I'm playing good hockey. But getting hurt a couple times in practice is definitely frustrating, and missing time because of that. It feels like whenever I get in a rhythm, something silly happens, and I'm missing some games here and there." Despite these setbacks, Pezzetta has recorded three goals and five assists while accumulating 45 penalty minutes.
Hometown Comfort and Unwavering NHL Aspirations
Playing for his hometown team has offered Pezzetta personal rewards, including increased family support and regular Sunday dinners with his parents. However, his professional ambitions remain firmly fixed on returning to hockey's highest level. "I want to play in the NHL," Pezzetta stated emphatically. "I know I can play in the NHL. I spent the last four seasons in the NHL. It's just doing everything I can to show that I can still play there, and if an opportunity comes, I'll be ready for it."
Pezzetta's resilience shines through his optimistic perspective. "There's no point in being negative," he remarked. "You come to the rink every day, have a smile on your face, work hard. You get to play hockey for a living, so it's never a bad day." This attitude exemplifies the determination shared by both Villeneuve and Pezzetta as they pursue their NHL dreams within the Maple Leafs organization.
As the Marlies' season progresses, these players continue to develop their skills and mental fortitude, understanding that professional hockey careers often require navigating challenges while maintaining focus on long-term objectives. Their journeys highlight the dedication and perseverance necessary to succeed in competitive sports environments.
