Canadiens Seek Internal Solutions for Grit and Balance Ahead of New Season

The Montreal Canadiens faced a stark reality during their Eastern Conference Final matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes. The series underscored a pressing need for more grit and physicality, as well as a more balanced defense. Coach Martin St-Louis requires a defense corps he can rely on, especially when the stakes are highest in the playoffs. Overusing players like Lane Hutson and Mike Matheson may work during the regular season, but when the playoffs arrive and players are nursing injuries, a deeper bench becomes essential.

In that critical series against the Hurricanes, Arber Xhekaj found himself sidelined, not playing a single game. St-Louis opted for Jayden Struble instead, a decision that reflected the coach’s preference for Struble’s ice time. However, the absence of Xhekaj’s physical presence was felt, particularly in a series that demanded toughness.

St-Louis has consistently emphasized the importance of players remaining engaged without chasing big hits, which has been a point of contention for Xhekaj in previous seasons. This past season, Xhekaj improved his game, yet it wasn’t enough to earn him a prominent role on the blue line. With forward Josh Anderson out due to illness and Alexandre Texier injured, Xhekaj expressed his willingness to shift to the wing if needed.

On March 29, St-Louis took him up on that offer, deploying Xhekaj on the fourth line against the Hurricanes. The decision paid off, as the Canadiens secured a 3-1 victory with Xhekaj contributing five hits and blocking a shot during his 5:11 on the ice. His ability to adapt to a forward role showcased his versatility and willingness to help the team.

The Canadiens’ blue line is currently crowded, and the need for added toughness up front is evident. If Xhekaj finds himself in a fight and needs to serve a five-minute penalty, it would be less disruptive as a fourth-line winger than as a defenseman, especially if another defender is already in the box.

At 25 years old and standing 6-foot-4, 240 pounds, Xhekaj is eager to establish himself as a regular NHL player rather than a fringe player alternating with Struble. This transition could also create opportunities for younger players like Adam Engstrom and David Reinbacher to join the lineup.

This offseason, general manager Kent Hughes has struggled to secure external help to enhance the roster. However, if the Canadiens can negotiate a new deal with Xhekaj, moving him to the forward position could effectively address two significant challenges: adding toughness and achieving a more balanced blue line that St-Louis can trust. The success of Dustin Byfuglien with the Chicago Blackhawks serves as a historical reference; if it worked then, why not for the Canadiens? While Xhekaj may not find himself on the top line like Byfuglien did alongside Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane, a shift to the fourth line could still provide the Canadiens with the boost they need.

Moreover, the prospect of seeing a line featuring the Xhekaj brothers in the NHL could add an intriguing layer of physicality and grit. As training camp approaches, if the Canadiens do not secure outside assistance, exploring this option may be worth considering.

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