Tonight’s matchup between the Montreal Canadiens and Ottawa Senators may look calmer on paper, but beneath the surface, old tensions are simmering. With several of Ottawa’s most notorious agitators absent from the lineup, some fans might expect a less heated contest than last week’s fiery clash in Quebec City. However, those familiar with Arber Xhekaj know that intensity can’t be measured simply by who’s on the ice.

Xhekaj, the Canadiens’ hard-hitting defenseman, has made it clear that he never forgets when rivalries cross the line. The echoes of last Tuesday’s questionable hits still linger, and while the Senators are missing big names like Brady Tkachuk and Nick Cousins, the emotional stakes remain sky-high. For Xhekaj, every encounter with Ottawa is more than just another game—it’s a chance to stand up for his teammates and send a message that dirty play won’t go unnoticed.

What will happen when past grudges meet tonight’s new lineup? Will the absence of Ottawa’s enforcers truly cool things down, or will Xhekaj’s long memory reignite the spark? One thing’s certain: the intensity is far from gone, and fans should prepare for a showdown where nothing will be forgotten.

Arber Xhekaj (left) Nick Cousins (right)

Photo credit: All Habs / NHL

It looks like the tension is easing a bit ahead of the Montreal Canadiens’ matchup against the Ottawa Senators.

According to Julian McKenzie, several big names from the Sens, including Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stutzle, Ridly Greig, and Nick Cousins, will not be in the lineup tonight.

This news should calm things down a bit after last Tuesday’s heated game in Quebec city.

Arber Xhekaj Holds a Long Memory After Senators’ Dirty Hits

Even though some of Ottawa’s most physical players won’t be there, Arber Xhekaj hasn’t forgotten anything.

As reported by DansLesCoulisses, the Canadiens’ defenseman said he’s keeping a long memory regarding the questionable plays from the last matchup.

“These are our rivals, so the game will be emotional, no matter what. I don’t think we targeted any specific players, but we will remember certain dirty hits.”

– Arber Xhekaj via TVA Sports

I have to say, I love that way of thinking.

And let’s be honest, it’s no surprise: he has already shown in the past that he doesn’t hesitate to defend his teammates.

For those who doubt his mentality, Xhekaj himself explained in an interview how much he enjoys physical contact and intense play-especially when he can count on the support of his brother Florian (and vice versa, of course).

In my opinion, even without Cousins and Tkachuk, the intensity will still be there. It’s almost inevitable..

In my view, Xhekaj won’t let anyone forget what happened last time.