Montreal’s hockey community is swirling with anticipation as whispers of a potential blockbuster trade between the Canadiens and the Vegas Golden Knights grow louder by the day. The city is no stranger to high-stakes negotiations, but this latest rumor has sparked a wave of speculation and debate unlike anything seen in recent memory. With both teams looking to reshape their rosters and address key needs, the possibility of a major shakeup has fans and analysts glued to every update.

At the heart of these discussions are two imposing defensemen whose names have become central to the trade chatter. As the Canadiens reportedly set their sights on strengthening their blue line, all eyes have turned to the possibility of a significant exchange that could alter the trajectory of both franchises. The stakes are high, and the potential consequences even higher, as insiders and reporters continue to piece together the puzzle.

While nothing has been finalized, the mere suggestion of such a move has sent shockwaves through both locker rooms and fan bases. As the trade deadline approaches and negotiations intensify, the hockey world waits with bated breath to see if this rumored deal will become reality—or if it will simply fade into the background noise of another eventful NHL season.

Feb 25, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj (72) plays the puck against the Carolina Hurricanes in the first period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

There are serious rumors currently linking the Montreal Canadiens and the Vegas Golden Knights in a very specific trade.

Multiple highly credible sources have confirmed that the Habs are currently trying to acquire towering defenseman Nicolas Hague.

Some believe that Kent Hughes could also be tempted to include center William Karlsson in this trade.

That said, what would the Montreal Canadiens give up in return?

A rumor indicates that the Golden Knights would want to include Arber Xhekaj in this trade

That’s not likely to go over well in Montreal.

And on that note, David Pagnotta mentioned that a guy like Arber Xhekaj could possibly be headed to Vegas if the trade happens.

“Xhekaj would certainly be an option for Vegas in terms of demands from the Golden Knights.” – David Pagnotta

Here’s the exact quote:

Could Arber Xhekaj be the price to pay for the Canadiens to acquire Nicolas Hague?

The Fourth Period: “Certainly going to be an option for Vegas in terms of their demands.”

This will be a very fascinating situation to watch, but it’s safe to say the smoke is thick.

At 26 years old, Nic Hague is a towering left-handed defenseman at 6-foot-6 and 245 pounds. He has recorded 83 points in 364 career NHL games, including 12 points in 68 games this season.

The 34th overall pick by the Golden Knights in 2017, he scored 35 goals in his final OHL season.

At 24 years old, Arber Xhekaj is a big left-handed defenseman at 6-foot-4 and 240 pounds. He has tallied 29 points in 165 career NHL games, including 6 points in 70 games this season.

The undrafted player, signed by the Canadiens in 2021, scored 6 goals in his final OHL season.