The Montreal Canadiens’ blue line has been the subject of much debate and speculation in recent months, but a fresh revelation from a trusted insider has just thrown gasoline on the fire.

With training camp drama heating up and the roster crunch looming, whispers about the future of one particular defenseman are growing louder—and this time, the focus is squarely on Arber Xhekaj.

While trade rumors have been swirling around other names, a surprising piece of information has emerged regarding Xhekaj’s status, and it’s sending shockwaves through the fanbase.

Why would the Canadiens even consider moving such a unique and beloved player? What could possibly entice management to pull the trigger on a deal involving one of Montreal’s most talked-about young stars?

Insiders are hinting at a price tag that will leave many fans stunned, and the reasoning behind it goes far beyond just hockey strategy.

There’s much more at play here than meets the eye—ranging from Xhekaj’s on-ice impact to his off-ice popularity and the delicate balance the Canadiens must strike as they look toward the future.

So, what exactly is happening behind closed doors—and what does it mean for the Habs’ blue line moving forward? The answers may surprise you.

Oct 1, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj (72) skates towards the play against the Ottawa Senators during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

The excellent Brian Wilde has just revealed some interesting information about Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj.

It’s interesting, because there aren’t really many trade rumors involving Xhekaj right now, for obvious reasons, but Wilde still addressed the matter.

Needless to say, the Canadiens currently have 8 defensemen for 6 regular spots, so decisions will eventually have to be made-especially once David Reinbacher is 100% ready.

What is Arber Xhekaj worth on the NHL trade market?

On Tony Marinaro’s Sick Podcast, Wilde stated very clearly that for Arber Xhekaj, the only thing Kent Hughes would accept is a first-round pick.

“Trading Arber Xhekaj would very likely come back to haunt the Habs..”

“I’m going to say the market for him is a 2nd round draft pick, but they’re not trading him because he’s a unicorn”

– Brian Wilde

The expert went on to say that the Canadiens’ management knows very well that Xhekaj is a special, unique player, and they see absolutely no reason to trade him for anything less than a first-round pick.

The Canadiens already have plenty of 2nd- and 3rd-round picks in Montreal.

“And Wilde raises another good point: in Montreal, Xhekaj’s case goes beyond hockey plans.

We’re talking about a guy who is extremely popular in the city, and trading him away for next to nothing would likely frustrate the fans more than anything else.”

– Félix Forget

That’s indeed a very good point, and it’s something that weighs heavily when it comes time for Kent Hughes to evaluate a trade offer for Arber Xhekaj (coming from another team).

And you, would you trade Arber Xhekaj for a first-round pick from a competitive team?