Canadiens Adjust Lineup as Xhekaj Scratched for Eastern Conference Final

As the Montreal Canadiens gear up for their 8:00 PM showdown against the Carolina Hurricanes, the absence of a morning skate has left fans speculating about the team’s lineup. Following the Hurricanes’ practice, healthy scratches took to the ice, revealing a notable change: defenseman Arber Xhekaj was among those skating alongside Jacob Fowler, Samuel Montembeault, Patrik Laine, Brendan Gallagher, and Joe Veleno.

This development suggests that Xhekaj, who logged only 1:52 of ice time in the decisive Game 7 against the Buffalo Sabres, will be replaced by Jayden Struble for tonight’s game. The Canadiens are set to face a Carolina team that plays a different style than the physical Sabres, making this lineup adjustment a strategic move. However, the Canadiens are still expected to bring their own brand of physicality, with players like Josh Anderson, Samuel Bolduc, Kaiden Guhle, and Struble ready to deliver some punishing hits.

Head coach Martin St-Louis is likely aiming to manage ice time effectively among his defensemen against a well-rested Hurricanes squad. While Xhekaj is a capable player, Struble has shown he can complement Lane Hutson effectively, and their prior chemistry could be an asset in this crucial matchup.

Despite being scratched for this game, Xhekaj is still very much in the mix for the series. If the game becomes more physical or if the Canadiens require his grit, he will be prepared to step back onto the ice. Both Xhekaj and Struble have seen their share of action in the playoffs, especially with Noah Dobson sidelined. Xhekaj has dressed for all but one game this postseason, while Struble was a regular in the first round before sitting out the second.

The other healthy scratches include Joe Veleno, who has played six games, Brendan Gallagher with three appearances (all in the first round), and Patrik Laine, who has yet to see action, alongside Samuel Montembeault.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.