Canadiens Inundated with Trade Inquiries for 22-Year-Old Defenseman Arber Xhekaj
The Montreal Canadiens are facing a barrage of inquiries regarding the talented 22-year-old defenseman, Arber Xhekaj. Despite being sent down to the AHL Laval over a month ago, the Canadiens remain resolute in their stance on potential trades involving the unsigned rookie.
Xhekaj’s Journey: AHL Demotion a Crucial Step in Development, Says Coach
Head coach Martin St. Louis describes Arber Xhekaj’s recent AHL demotion as an essential part of the young player’s developmental process. Following an upper-body injury that placed him on injured reserve in November, Xhekaj returned on December 4th, only to be subsequently sent down to the AHL affiliate.
NHL Trade Rumors Heat Up: Multiple Teams Inquire About Xhekaj’s Availability
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reveals that numerous teams have expressed interest in acquiring Arber Xhekaj. Montreal has received inquiries from these teams, questioning whether Xhekaj’s demotion to the AHL might indicate a change in the Canadiens’ stance and a possible trade opportunity.
Friedman reported:
“From what I’ve heard, a number of teams have called Montreal and said, ‘well since he’s down there, does that mean your opinion on him has changed and he could be available?’ ‘I understand from Montreal it’s been a flat ‘no’ about Xhekaj, and there have been a couple of teams that have asked.”
A Victoria, BC edition of Saturday Headlines with @FriedgeHNIC 📰@Scotiabank | #HockeyDay pic.twitter.com/HTCg0NcvdK
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) January 21, 2024
Xhekaj’s AHL Impact: Impressive Stats and Noteworthy Altercation
Arber Xhekaj has made a significant impact during his time with the Laval Rocket in the AHL. In 17 games, he has scored three goals, assisted on eight occasions, and accumulated 34 penalty minutes. However, it is not only his stats that have caught attention but also a recent altercation that has caused controversy.
But Montreal has other good defenders, namely Mike Matheson and David Savard, plus more talent coming up. This makes them comfortable keeping Xhekaj on board. Canadiens General Manager Kent Hughes emphasized the team’s lack of urgency to make a trade, stating:
“Do I feel like we have a gun to our head to do that right now? No, not at all.”
Hughes expressed the team’s interest in boosting offensive capabilities and mentioned the possibility of using existing young players or draft picks to achieve this goal. As Arber Xhekaj continues to shine in the AHL, the Canadiens remain steadfast in their decision to keep the promising defenseman within their organization.
Controversial Altercation: Xhekaj’s Physicality Raises Eyebrows
Arber Xhekaj continues to make headlines in the AHL, showcasing his physical presence in a recent altercation against Brennan Saulnier, a player significantly lighter at 170 pounds. In a not-so-pretty sight, Xhekaj delivered a beating, captured in footage that circulated among fans. The incident, captured in circulating footage, has sparked debate and speculation regarding potential repercussions for both players involved. The following day, Saulnier sought retaliation, targeting Kasimir Kaskisuo, though not as discreetly. Anticipating potential repercussions, it’s speculated that a suspension might be in store for the Senators forward.
That AHL WiFi signal is still STRONG 😳
Arber Xhekaj was letting me’ fly (via @RocketLaval) pic.twitter.com/8koTY6kKDn
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) January 20, 2024
Rocket Players Rally Around Xhekaj Amidst Controversy
Following the altercation, Rocket players promptly came to the defense of their goalie. The relatively unknown Saulnier has now made a name for himself in the league, albeit not entirely for positive reasons..
Editorial Perspective
Looking ahead, Xhekaj’s future in the NHL appears promising. With his exceptional skills, determination, and the support of his teammates and coaching staff, he ispoised to become a cornerstone player for the Montreal Canadiens and a key figure in the league. His continued growth and development will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the team’s success. The hockey world eagerly awaits Xhekaj’s future accomplishments and the excitement he will bring to the game in the seasons to come.
