The Montreal Canadiens find themselves at a crossroads, with speculation swirling around the future of one of their most talked-about young defensemen. As the team continues to search for the missing pieces that could propel them into true contention, tough decisions loom on the horizon.

The recent absence of Arber Xhekaj from the lineup has only fueled the conversation, prompting fans and analysts alike to question what the future holds for the hard-nosed blueliner known for his physical style and passionate play.

In a city where hockey is more than just a game, every roster move is scrutinized, and every rumor quickly becomes the subject of heated debate. With the Canadiens’ front office openly seeking to bolster their forward group, particularly at center, the possibility of a significant trade is no longer just idle chatter—it’s a real consideration.

As radio personalities and insiders weigh in on what the team might be willing to sacrifice to achieve their goals, the atmosphere around the Bell Centre is charged with anticipation and uncertainty. Whatever happens next, it’s clear that the organization is preparing to make bold moves, and the outcome could reshape the team’s future for years to come.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

The absence of Arber Xhekaj during the first two games of the series against the Washington Capitals caused a lot of chatter among Montreal Canadiens fans.

For many experts, the fact that Martin St-Louis didn’t use him might be a sign that his time in Montreal is coming to an end.

Moreover, a radio host from the city believes that the sheriff could be used as bait by Kent Hughes to acquire the much-desired top-6 forward for the organization.

That’s exactly what happened with Alexander Romanov.

Arber Xhekaj Possibly Traded in Return for a Second-Line Center?

On BPM Sports radio, Georges Laraque and Stéphane Gonzalez discussed Arber Xhekaj’s future with the Canadiens, and Gonzo suggested that if he isn’t being used properly, it might be better to trade him.

“Playing him as the seventh defenseman, he has value, and it’s not the value of a seventh defenseman. Xhekaj has greater value than that.

You need a second-line center. I’m not saying I would trade him, but with that kind of usage..

The Montreal Canadiens will have to identify who they’re going to sacrifice.

And that’s the word, sacrifice, because to get good players, you have to give up good players.

Canadiens fans might be hurt at the draft, because you can’t go get a second-line center without giving something up, and Xhekaj doesn’t have the value of a second-line center on his own.”

Stéphane Gonzalez

It’s clear that Xhekaj alone wouldn’t be enough to land a top-6 forward, but he could be part of a package of players, picks, and prospects that Kent Hughes could put together to achieve his goal.

And you, what’s your opinion on the matter?

One thing is certain, this aligns with the rumor launched by David Pagnotta last week, suggesting that Kent Hughes is being aggressive in trying to acquire a second-line forward, ideally a center.

Kent Hughes himself mentioned it: he would rather overpay to acquire a player via trade than overpay through free agency.

Could this involve Arber Xhekaj?

The option definitely seems to be on the table.