As the intensity of the playoffs heats up, a surprising storyline has emerged in the series between the Montreal Canadiens and the Washington Capitals. The ongoing decision to keep Arber Xhekaj out of the lineup has sparked widespread debate among fans and analysts, especially after his absence in Game 1 raised more questions than answers.

Head coach Martin St-Louis has faced mounting pressure to explain his choices, with many expecting Xhekaj’s physical presence to be a potential game-changer against the Capitals’ aggressive style. However, St-Louis has remained steadfast, offering candid insights into his reasoning and challenging the popular belief that Xhekaj’s inclusion would alter the dynamic of the series.

As speculation swirls and the Canadiens continue to rely on their current defensive group, the situation has become a focal point of discussion, highlighting the tough decisions and strategic calculations that define playoff hockey.

Photo of Martin St-Louis and Arber Xhekaj

Photo credit: NHL

This is quite a big story in the first round of the playoffs and in the series between the Montreal Canadiens and the Washington Capitals.

Arber Xhekaj keeps getting sent to the press box, and despite what happened in Game 1, he doesn’t seem to be an option for head coach Martin St-Louis.

On that topic, St-Louis agreed to elaborate during his most recent press conference.

Specifically, the real reason he’s not playing Xhekaj is because he’s convinced it won’t change the way Tom Wilson plays.

Canadiens head coach Martin St-Louis doesn’t think Arber Xhekaj will change Tom Wilson or the Capitals’ physical play.

“I know what you’re trying to get me to say. I don’t know. I have Xhekaj. He’s a card. I might play him. I don’t know yet. But it’s a good card to have.”

Via Washington journalist Stephen Whyno

Absurd explanations from Martin St-Louis

The Canadiens’ head coach also mentioned, as a reason for not playing Xhekaj, that it would obviously require removing another player from the lineup.

In other words, Martin St-Louis prefers the current group and doesn’t view Xhekaj as one of his top six defensemen (at the very least).

Habs coach Marty St. Louis today on potentially bringing in Arber Xhekaj in game 2 vs the Caps:

“You have to take out someone as well. What are you gaining and what are you losing? I don’t think it’s going to change Tom Wilson’s style of play.”

Via HabsOnReddit

So this will be something to watch in the upcoming games, but don’t expect to see Xhekaj in the playoffs unless an injury occurs.