Canadiens’ Arber Xhekaj Draws Interest from Calgary Flames Ahead of Trade Deadline

As the 2026 NHL trade deadline looms closer, Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj is attracting attention from a Pacific Division team. Reports indicate that the Calgary Flames have shown “an interest” in the young blueliner, according to Herb Zurkowsky of the Montreal Gazette.

The Flames’ interest in Xhekaj is not surprising given their current rebuilding phase. At just 25 years old, Xhekaj possesses the potential to contribute significantly to a team focused on future success. His addition could provide the Flames with the youthful talent they seek to bolster their roster.

Should Calgary secure Xhekaj, he would likely find himself with increased opportunities on the ice. The Flames’ left-side defense is notably less robust than that of the Canadiens, which could pave the way for Xhekaj to slot into a second-pairing role, offering him the chance for consistent playing time.

However, trading Xhekaj poses a substantial risk for the Canadiens. He embodies the type of gritty, hard-hitting defenseman that playoff contenders rely on when the stakes are high. Thus, Montreal might be better served by retaining him rather than parting ways.

As the trade deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the Canadiens and Xhekaj to see how this situation unfolds.

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