The Montreal Canadiens are no strangers to the spotlight, especially when it comes to their rising prospects. Recently, one name has been at the center of heated debate and passionate discussion among fans and experts alike: FLORIAN XHEKAJ.

While many in the Montreal hockey community have been singing his praises, highlighting his rapid development and impressive performances on the ice, not everyone shares the same level of enthusiasm. In a surprising turn, a respected NHL expert has voiced strong skepticism about Xhekaj’s future, igniting a wave of reactions across social media and sports circles.

This unexpected criticism stands in stark contrast to the glowing reviews from coaches and local journalists, who have watched Xhekaj consistently exceed expectations and make a name for himself with his tenacity, skill, and work ethic. As the debate intensifies, the hockey world finds itself divided—some siding with the expert’s cautious outlook, others rallying behind the young forward’s undeniable progress. The story of FLORIAN XHEKAJ is quickly becoming one of the most intriguing subplots of the Canadiens’ preseason, setting the stage for a season filled with anticipation, controversy, and the potential for a breakout star to prove his doubters wrong.

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

One of the Montreal Canadiens’ most intriguing prospects has surprisingly just been criticized by an expert.

Virtually all the experts and journalists in Montreal are highly impressed by the progression of young Florian Xhekaj.

Even Pascal Vincent seems to be amazed by the younger Xhekaj brother’s performance.

Xhekaj’s response impressed Pascal Vincent (RDS).

Here’s an excerpt of what he said:

Pascal Vincent praised a player who “keeps surprising us.”

“He was excellent. […] He did an exceptional job.

He was good in the faceoff circle.

Of course, he scored a big goal, but beyond that, it was his presence, his hits, his defensive reads.

I shouldn’t be surprised anymore, but he keeps elevating his game every time, praised the coach. It’s impressive.”

Pascal Vincent was referring to Florian Xhekaj.

Expert Byron Bader is much less enthusiastic about Florian Xhekaj

He is one of the few to criticize the Montreal Canadiens’ pick in the 2023 Draft.

“Florian Xhekaj.. not looking great. Very few notable players that have a production development path like this. Troy Brouwer, Jordan Martinook.. essentially best case scenario and pretty unlikely.”

– Byron Bader

Criticized after his comments on Xhekaj, Bader added the following:

“It’s been 30 years since a player with that same profile and age grouping made the NHL. Let’s see!”

– Byron Bader

Clearly, Bader has no faith in Florian Xhekaj, which is unfortunate because he’s a highly respected expert. But as Nick Bobrov would say.. Florian is a unicorn!

That’s the factor Bader seems to be ignoring in his analysis and criticism.