The Montreal Canadiens’ 2025-26 season has barely begun, yet one burning question is already dominating conversations among fans and analysts alike: What’s really happening with Arber Xhekaj’s ice time?

As the Bell Centre roared with excitement during the home opener against the Seattle Kraken, sharp-eyed supporters couldn’t help but notice the rugged young defenseman’s limited minutes on the ice—an issue that’s rapidly becoming a hot topic across Quebec.

Despite his reputation for toughness and his knack for making game-changing plays, Xhekaj has found himself logging less time than several of his teammates, including newcomer Alexandre Carrier.

The numbers don’t lie, and neither does the growing sense of frustration among those who believe Xhekaj deserves a bigger role. With every game, the debate intensifies: Is this a strategic move by head coach Martin St-Louis, or is something else going on behind the scenes?

Today, Xhekaj finally broke his silence, offering a glimpse into his mindset and how he’s coping with the unpredictable shifts in his playing time. But his comments raise even more questions about the team’s defense strategy and what the future might hold—not just for Xhekaj, but for other players waiting in the wings. The answers may surprise you.

Oct 14, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj (72) plays the puck and Seattle Kraken forward Jani Nyman (38) forechecks during the first period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Several fans and observers have pointed out the disappointing ice time of young Arber Xhekaj since the start of this 2025-26 Montreal Canadiens season.

Why has Quebecer Alexandre Carrier averaged over 16 minutes per game this season, while the rugged Xhekaj has only played 11 minutes per game?

Arber played 11 minutes and 8 seconds against the Toronto Maple Leafs, 15 minutes and 37 seconds against the Detroit Red Wings, and a very slim 6 minutes and 48 seconds against the Chicago Blackhawks.. Yes, yes, less than seven minutes!

What does Arber Xhekaj think about this? The question was asked to him today.

Arber Xhekaj publicly sends a message responding positively to his disappointing usage by Martin St-Louis

He’s keeping the right mindset despite everything!

Arber Xhekaj today on being the 6th defenseman:

“There are games where I’ve played 5 mins, there are games where I’ve played 15 mins. I’ve just found ways to kinda stay in the game, so when it’s my time to go, I’m ready to go.”

– HabsOnReddit

In any case, one thing’s for sure, he’s well aware of his ice time since these numbers are completely accurate!

Tonight, in a thrilling home opener win over the Seattle Kraken, Xhekaj logged a team-low 10 minutes and finished the game with one shot.

It will also be worth seeing if Martin St-Louis eventually turns to Jayden Struble, who is the seventh defenseman and hasn’t played a single game yet this season.

Jayden Struble, 24 years old, is a left-handed defenseman standing 6 feet tall and weighing 207 pounds. He was a second-round pick of the Montreal Canadiens in 2019.

Last season, he recorded 13 points (and 52 penalty minutes) in 56 games with the Montreal Canadiens.

And you, what’s your opinion regarding Arber Xhekaj’s usage so far?