In the ever-evolving landscape of NHL trades, few names have sparked as much intrigue and speculation in Montreal as Arber Xhekaj.

With rumors swirling and the hockey world buzzing, recent revelations from trusted insiders have thrown a spotlight on the Canadiens’ young defenseman, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

On a widely followed podcast, respected analyst Brian Wilde dropped a bombshell about Xhekaj’s current market value, igniting a wave of debate among fans and management alike.

But how close did the Canadiens actually come to moving one of their most talked-about players? And what would it really take for Kent Hughes to part ways with a talent like Xhekaj?

As whispers of draft picks and trade proposals circulate, the tension grows—especially given Montreal’s defensive surplus and the temptation to make a big move.

Behind the scenes, sources suggest the price tag for Xhekaj is higher than many might expect, and the team’s reluctance to trade him for anything less than a significant return only adds to the mystery.

Could a single decision reshape the future of the Habs? The full story is packed with twists you won’t want to miss.

Nov 12, 2023; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj (72) looks on against the Vancouver Canucks during the first period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

On Tony Marinaro’s podcast, the excellent Brian Wilde revealed some interesting information about a possible Arber Xhekaj trade.

In particular, he shared details about Xhekaj’s current market value.

According to Wilde on the Sick Podcast, Xhekaj is currently worth a second-round draft pick.

At that price, and rightfully so, the Canadiens don’t want to trade him.

“To get him out of Montreal, it’s going to take a first-round pick.”

Brian Wilde reveals the current trade market for Arber Xhekaj is a second-round pick, but the Canadiens won’t move him for less than a first-rounder

This was also reported by Félix Forget (DansLesCoulisses).

Trading Arber Xhekaj is a decision Habs management could regret for a long time, and they seem well aware of that.

That doesn’t mean he won’t be traded (unfortunately), but it does mean that if he is, it’ll likely be for a meaningful return – at least a first-round pick.

“I’d say the market for him right now is a second-round draft pick.” – Brian Wilde

All the details are in the full clip below:

Personally, if I were in Kent Hughes’ shoes, I’d have a very hard time letting go of a player like Xhekaj. Still, it’s clear he has to listen to offers given the surplus on defense.

But for just a second-round pick, the decision is easy.. You keep him!