Arber Xhekaj is one of the more interesting players on the Montreal Canadiens’ blueline. At just 24 years old, he brings a strong and aggressive defensive style that fans and coaches alike have come to appreciate. He might not be the flashiest player, but what he offers in physical play, positioning, and toughness makes him a valuable part of the lineup.
Xhekaj’s Role Is Growing
With Brendan Guhle out of the lineup, the Canadiens’ defense group has had to step up. That has naturally led to more ice time for Xhekaj. While he’s not a player known for producing offense, he’s now playing more minutes, and how he handles this bigger role will be something to watch closely.
One thing Xhekaj must improve with the added minutes is his puck management. As his ice time increases, so does the chance for turnovers, and that’s an area he must tighten up. Still, this challenge is a good sign — it means the team trusts him more, and he’s growing as a defenseman.
Hits, Fights, and Physicality: His Strengths
Xhekaj brings a strong physical presence to the game. For example:
- 8 hits against Winnipeg
- 2 hits against Minnesota
- He averages 2.54 hits per game
He’s not afraid to drop the gloves either. According to Hockey Fights, Xhekaj has been in four fights so far this season. His Penalty Minutes (PIMs) are reasonable and reflect the physical style he plays without crossing the line.
Skating, Size, and Defensive Play
Standing at 6’4”, Xhekaj is a big player who can skate well. His skating ability helps him land clean hits and stay in position. His defensive zone coverage has shown signs of improvement, and with more experience, it should only get better.
He’s still developing, but with 143 NHL games under his belt, he’s on track to hit 200 games soon — a big achievement for a player who wasn’t even drafted.
Arber Xhekaj may not be a top-pair defenseman, but he plays a key role on the Canadiens’ blueline. His physical game, skating, and developing defensive awareness make him a reliable presence. As long as he manages his minutes well and limits turnovers, he will continue to grow into a valuable, everyday NHL defenseman. For an undrafted player, his progress has been a big success story for Montreal.
