When the Montreal Canadiens selected Florian Xhekaj in the fourth round of the 2023 NHL Draft, few could have predicted just how quickly the young forward would become the subject of such intense excitement and speculation.

Now, with whispers of a remarkable comparison to one of the league’s most respected centers, Adam Lowry, the hockey world is buzzing with anticipation.

What exactly did Pascal Vincent, a renowned hockey mind with firsthand experience, see in Xhekaj that led him to make such a bold statement? And why does this comparison carry so much weight for Canadiens fans and management alike?

As the details surrounding Xhekaj’s development continue to emerge, questions swirl about his potential impact on the team’s future. Could Kent Hughes’ decision to draft Xhekaj prove to be a masterstroke that transforms Montreal’s offensive depth for years to come?

What hidden qualities and untapped skills does Xhekaj possess that make him such a tantalizing prospect?

Before jumping to conclusions, readers will want to explore the surprising context, expert insights, and behind-the-scenes perspectives that have turned this acquisition into one of the most talked-about stories in recent Canadiens history. The full story promises to reveal much more than meets the eye.

May 11, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Winnipeg Jets center Adam Lowry (17) in action during the game between the Dallas Stars and the Winnipeg Jets in game three of the second round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

One of Kent Hughes’ and the Montreal Canadiens’ solid acquisitions on offense in recent years came in the 4th round of the 2023 draft.

With the 101st overall pick, the Canadiens acquired young forward Florian Xhekaj, and since then, everything indicates that it’s a successful acquisition.

Selection of Florian Xhekaj: we can now say that it’s a successful acquisition for Kent Hughes and the Habs

See what Pascal Vincent just said about Arber Xhekaj’s younger brother..

Coming from such an incredible hockey mind like him, yes, for me that confirms it’s a successful acquisition for the Habs.

While appearing on the Sick Podcast, Pascal Vincent mentioned this.

“There are similarities between Florian Xhekaj and Adam Lowry.”

Pascal Vincent

Lowry is one of the most intimidating and underrated players in the NHL.

If Xhekaj becomes an Adam Lowry, it will really be mission accomplished for the Montreal Canadiens!

The comparison is all the more interesting because it comes precisely from Pascal Vincent, who knows Lowry very well!

Adam Lowry, 32 years old, is a very complete center at 6-foot-5 and 210 pounds.

He was a 3rd-round pick by the Winnipeg Jets in 2011, and he collected 34 points in 73 games last season, while posting a positive differential of +18.

We’re really talking here about one of the best third-line centers in the entire NHL.