When it comes to playoff hockey, every subtle shift on the ice can have a ripple effect that changes the course of a series. This year, one of the most talked-about adjustments came not from a star forward or a tactical overhaul, but from the addition of a hard-nosed defenseman whose presence alone seemed to rewrite the script. Arber Xhekaj, known for his physicality and fearless approach, was inserted into the Montreal Canadiens’ lineup at a crucial moment—and the results were impossible to ignore.

Suddenly, the Washington Capitals, a team notorious for their aggressive, hard-hitting style, found themselves pulling back, their trademark edge blunted in the face of Xhekaj’s imposing presence. The numbers reveal a dramatic drop in hits and a clear change in attitude, as even the Capitals’ most physical players seemed to think twice before engaging.

For the Canadiens, it was a strategic masterstroke; for the Capitals, a challenge they hadn’t anticipated. As the series pressed on, it became increasingly evident that Xhekaj’s impact went far beyond the stat sheet, sending a message that reverberated throughout the rink and beyond.

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

The Washington Capitals made a major change to their style of play because of a certain Arber Xhekaj.

Some claimed that inserting the Sheriff into the lineup didn’t change anything or calm the aggressiveness of the Caps players – but that’s not true.

As Marco Normandin points out, the insertion of Arber Xhekaj into the Canadiens’ lineup changed the Capitals’ game.

Xhekaj, who was put into the mix for Game 3 in place of Jayden Struble – and who’s likely to stay in the lineup for tonight – clearly had an impact.

The numbers speak for themselves.

“As reported by TVA Sports, the Capitals players delivered significantly fewer hits, with their total of 79 in Games 1 and 2 combined dropping to 52 in Games 3 and 4 combined, with Xhekaj in the lineup. That’s an average drop of 12 hits per game.”

– Marco Normandin

No, that’s definitely not nothing!

The Capitals have changed their style of play and are delivering far fewer hits since Arber Xhekaj joined the lineup

The contrast is quite striking.

Xhekaj’s presence seems to have specifically cooled down the likes of Alex Ovechkin, Brandon Duhaime, Lars Eller, Nic Dowd, and Pierre-Luc Dubois – players who often find themselves on the ice at the same time as Xhekaj.

Take a look at the difference.

This certainly strengthens the argument of those convinced that Xhekaj’s presence in the lineup has a positive impact for the Canadiens, and a pretty negative one on the Capitals’ aggression.