In a recent episode of The Hockey Writers Roundtable, hosts Matthew Zator and Jacob Billington engaged with Raz Devraj to discuss the future of Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj. They explored contrasting views on Xhekaj’s potential trade value and his place in a struggling Canadiens team.
**Toughness vs. Skill: A Challenging Prospect**
Billington expressed doubts about Xhekaj’s viability in the NHL, stating that while he offers considerable toughness, he may lack the necessary skills to be a dependable defenseman. He remarked, “If you’re not able to make the Montreal Canadiens defense group, you may not be that good. I don’t expect much demand for a player like Xhekaj.” This viewpoint suggests that Xhekaj’s physicality isn’t enough to distinguish him on a team that is lacking depth.
**Panel Discusses Limited Interest for Xhekaj**
Billington further elaborated that the Canadiens are unlikely to vie for a playoff position this season, potentially decreasing interest in Xhekaj from other teams. He noted, “They’re not going to be competitive for a playoff spot, especially with the injuries they’re facing.” He pointed out that teams might question the value of acquiring a player from a team that struggles to utilize him. Additionally, Xhekaj seems to have developed a slight reputation with referees.
Billington also shared a personal perspective, praising Xhekaj’s journey to the NHL and his determination. He recognized that Xhekaj could be useful in particular matchups against tougher rival teams, stating, “He’s a solid choice to include in the lineup when tougher opponents are on the ice.” Still, he suggested that Xhekaj’s contributions might be limited primarily to providing physicality, rather than significantly impacting the team’s success.
**The Final Word: An Uncertain Future for Xhekaj**
The Canadiens are striving to enhance their performance this season, which may render Xhekaj’s potential trade a secondary issue. While his toughness is valued, the discussion indicates that teams may be reluctant to pursue a trade for a player who lacks a clear role on another team.
Xhekaj’s future likely depends on how the Canadiens perform and whether they are willing to reassess their roster. He has a considerable fan base that will closely monitor his progress and hope for him to secure a more prominent role. However, without improvement, it seems unlikely that he will remain with the Canadiens as the team works towards rebuilding.
