Every training camp brings its own stories, but this year, one name has quietly taken over conversations in Montreal: Arber Xhekaj.

While fans are used to seeing him make headlines for his physical play or highlight-reel moments, what’s happening behind the scenes is something entirely different—and far more intriguing.

The spotlight isn’t just on his on-ice performance, but on a unique relationship that could be shaping the future of the Canadiens in ways few expected.

As whispers circulate about the Xhekaj brothers and their impact on the team, a recent interview has set tongues wagging.

Arber Xhekaj’s candid words about his connection with head coach Martin St-Louis have left fans and insiders alike searching for deeper meaning.

Is this bond just another player-coach dynamic, or is it the secret ingredient to unlocking Xhekaj’s true potential and accelerating Montreal’s rebuild?

With emotions running high and the stakes higher than ever, the Canadiens’ locker room may be witnessing the emergence of a new leader—one molded not just by talent, but by trust and mentorship.

What exactly did Xhekaj reveal, and how could it change everything for both him and the team? The answer might surprise you.

Mar 15, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj (72) skates with the puck near the net against the Florida Panthers in the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Each day of training camp brings its share of observations and discussions, but I believe few have been talked about more over the past week than Arber Xhekaj.

Between Florian Xhekaj’s promising performances and Arber’s renewed energy, the Xhekaj family continues to attract the spotlight.

What’s drawing attention this time isn’t body checks or goals, but rather words that speak volumes about the relationship between a player and his coach.

Arber Xhekaj talks about his unique bond with Martin St-Louis

In an interview with journalist Eric Engels of Sportsnet, Arber Xhekaj surprised everyone with a touching statement about Martin St-Louis.

Here’s what he said:

“He treats me like I’m his son. He’s definitely hard on me sometimes because he knows what I can be and what I can do, and he wants it so badly for me.

Obviously, he’s going to be hard on me sometimes, and sometimes he’s going to praise me. It’s a strong bond we have. He treats me well. He wants me to be a strong player that makes quick plays out there and is physical and just a solid defender, and he believes I can reach for a higher ceiling.”

– Xhekaj on St-Louis

These words reveal a rare connection between a coach and his player. More than just a coach, St-Louis acts as a mentor, able to push Xhekaj toward his full potential.

In my opinion, this kind of relationship could transform Arber’s role and allow him to establish himself as a key defenseman for the Canadiens.

I truly believe it’s these kinds of human dynamics that can make all the difference in a successful rebuild.