The wait is almost over for William Villeneuve. The right-shot defenceman hasn't played since his Saint John Sea Dogs, who will host the Memorial Cup, lost in the opening round of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League playoffs way back on May 12.
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Villeneuve is looking to build off a strong regular season. He produced 56 points in 64 games, led the league in plus/minus (plus-60) and was nominated for the QMJHL defenceman of the year award. The native of Sherbrooke, Que. reflected on his growth as a player during a conversation with TSN. The following is an edited transcript of the interview.
TSN: Where did you improve the most this year?
Villeneuve:
"Being reliable in every aspect of the game. When I first came in [to the QMJHL] at 16, I was very offensive-minded and not good enough in my zone and not physical enough. Trying to defend better and use my body more has been a big focus this year and I've done a good job of that."
TSN: How do you work on that?
Villeneuve:
"Sometimes you make mistakes in practice, so I try and challenge myself and implant that in my head. And then it's doing a lot of video work with [Leafs director of player development] Danielle Goyette, especially during the second half, and really trying to cut down on the little mistakes."
TSN: What's it like working with Goyette?
Villeneuve:
"It's great. You send her a text and in 10 minutes she answers and the next day you're doing video with her. It's pretty crazy that I have access to NHL people like that. Two years ago, I didn't have that, so it's been great."
TSN: What has been the biggest message from Goyette and the Leafs this season?
Villeneuve:
"It's really, 'Dial in on the little details of the game.' I was at Leafs training camp early in the season and the biggest thing I saw there is that every NHL player is good at the simple plays. So, for me, through Danielle, my focus is on being great at little plays and simple plays that in the long run make a big difference."
TSN: What stands out about the resources the Leafs organization can provide you?
Villeneuve:
"Ah, it's pretty crazy. There's so many people who want to help you in terms of food and sleep and working out and on-ice stuff, so it's really great to have a lot of people support you. It makes you feel confident."
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TSN: Have you made gains when it comes to your size and strength?
Villeneuve:
"Yeah, it's getting better. I came in at 16 at around 150 pounds and now I'm around 180. There's still a lot of growth to do and I will keep on working in the gym this summer and trying to get stronger."
