After dropping their last two games, the Montreal Canadiens are searching for a spark to get back on track, and one name that continues to surface is Arber Xhekaj. The 24-year-old defenceman has been a healthy scratch for eight straight games, left on the sidelines despite his reputation as one of the team’s most physical and intimidating presences. With the Habs still battling to clinch a playoff spot, Xhekaj’s return could bring the kind of toughness and edge this team may need heading into the postseason grind.
With a matchup against the struggling Chicago Blackhawks on deck, this could be the perfect opportunity for the Canadiens to shake things up and reintroduce Xhekaj into the lineup. Facing a weaker opponent gives head coach Martin St. Louis the chance to experiment without the same level of risk, and inserting Xhekaj could not only add grit to the blue line but also send a message to the rest of the team with the playoffs looming.
Why Should Xhekaj Play?
There’s a strong case to be made for bringing Xhekaj back into the Canadiens’ lineup, and it starts with the unique identity he brings to the ice. As one of the most physical and intimidating players in the organization, he has the rare ability to influence a game without ever touching the scoresheet. His heavy hits, willingness to drop the gloves, and fearless presence in front of the net give the Canadiens an edge they’ve sorely missed during his eight-game absence. Especially as the team inches closer to a potential playoff berth, having a player who can handle the grind, push back against opponents, and create emotional momentum shifts becomes not just valuable, but necessary.
His presence alone forces teams to keep their heads up, and in a league where space and time disappear in the postseason, that kind of presence can tilt the ice. He’s not just a bruiser, either; he’s shown flashes of offensive upside and has continued to work on his puck movement and decision-making, making him more than capable of handling third-pairing duties.
