In the aftermath of a heated showdown at the Bell Centre, one name continues to dominate the conversation among Montreal Canadiens fans and analysts: Arber Xhekaj.

Known for his unwavering loyalty and fierce protection of his teammates, Xhekaj’s latest on-ice decision has sparked a wave of debate that refuses to settle.

As the dust settles from last night’s clash against the Philadelphia Flyers, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on the defenseman’s controversial penalty—and what it truly means for the team.

Is Xhekaj’s aggressive style a liability or the missing ingredient Montreal has been searching for? While some critics are quick to point fingers at every infraction, others argue that his passion and grit are exactly what the Canadiens need to thrive.

But the real question lingers: should the team rein in their enforcer, or embrace the chaos that comes with his brand of hockey?

With media personalities and fans weighing in on both sides, the debate has never been more intense. What did Arber Xhekaj do that has everyone talking—and why are respected voices in the hockey world defending his actions so fiercely? The answer goes far beyond a single penalty, and it’s a story you’ll want to read to the end.

Sep 23, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj (72) plays the puck during the third period against the Philadelphia Flyers at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

The tough Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj has always been there to defend his teammates with consistency and conviction.

That’s the kind of player he is, and it would be completely illogical to try to change him.

In short, a move the Sheriff made last night has been heavily discussed this morning (in various media), and I’ll simply sum it up by saying that I am 100% in agreement with Anthony Marcotte.

“My point of view on Arber Xhekaj: If we’re not ready for him to take penalties from time to time because he’s standing up for his teammates, we might as well trade him. We’ve been looking for a guy with his style for so long..”

– Anthony Marcotte

Indeed, if we’re going to criticize Arber Xhekaj for every little move (unnecessary for some) that leads to penalties, then we might as well trade him right away.

Yes, a passionate player like Arber Xhekaj will take a few “extra” penalties, but it’s so important to let him be himself and allow him to do his job.

Let Arber Xhekaj Do His Job and Stop Criticizing His Bad Penalties

That’s absolutely necessary, in my humble opinion.

The guys at BPM Sports talked about it at length this morning on their morning show.

So, did I find it bothersome to see Arber Xhekaj take justice into his own hands last night (and get a penalty)? Absolutely not.

“While there was a penalty against him by the Flyers, Arber Xhekaj decided to take justice into his own hands. Does that bother you?” – BPM Sports

Absolutely not.

And you, what’s your opinion on this?

I just hope that head coach Martin St-Louis shares the same opinion as we do.

Obviously, Arber has to pick his spots.. But I trust that he’ll be able to do that and won’t, for example, take a bad penalty in the final two minutes of a close game.