The Montreal Canadiens are no strangers to tough decisions, but recent developments have ignited one of the most intriguing debates in recent memory.

With the signing of Jayden Struble, general manager Kent Hughes has sent shockwaves through the fanbase, raising urgent questions about the future of Arber Xhekaj—a player whose physicality and passion have made him a fan favorite at the Bell Centre.

As the battle for the coveted sixth defenseman spot intensifies, whispers about potential trades and locker room dynamics have started to swirl, leaving many to wonder: what does this mean for Xhekaj’s place in Montreal?

Insiders and analysts alike have weighed in, hinting at behind-the-scenes preferences and shifting priorities within the Canadiens’ management.

Some believe Xhekaj is irreplaceable, especially when the pressure of playoff hockey looms. Others see Struble as the future, a more reliable and versatile option on the blue line.

But what’s really going on behind closed doors?

Could Xhekaj’s days in the red, white, and blue be numbered? And if so, what kind of frenzy would his availability spark across the NHL?

The answers may surprise you—and they’re at the heart of a story that’s far from finished.

Jan 28, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj (72) looks on during warm-up before the game against the Winnipeg Jets at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

The signing of Jayden Struble by Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens has sparked reactions and questions, particularly concerning Arber Xhekaj.

What does this signing mean for Xhekaj, knowing full well that it will come down to him, Struble, and David Reinbacher for the sixth defenseman spot in Montreal?

After all, the Canadiens gave more money to Struble than to Xhekaj.

It’s an interesting question, and that’s exactly the topic that was discussed on BPM Sports in recent hours.

If the Canadiens put Arber Xhekaj on the trade market, there would surely be a flood of calls!

Here’s the essence of what was said:

“Arber Xhekaj is indispensable to the Canadiens, especially in a playoff run.

He’s a player who brings a physical dimension that no one else on the team does, and if you put him on the market tomorrow morning, there would be 31 clubs calling to inquire about his services.

But the Canadiens’ management likes Jayden Struble as a hockey player much more.

The Canadiens’ management considers him much more reliable defensively, much better at jumpstarting the offense.

He’s in the Canadiens’ plans (Jayden Struble).

It’s as simple as that, and Martin St-Louis, I’m convinced, would agree with me.”

– JP Bertrand

Listening to this, it’s clear that the outlook for Arber Xhekaj’s future in Montreal doesn’t seem all that promising.

That said, it’s also clear that the day Kent Hughes puts the Sheriff on the trade market, there will be a flood of calls for his services.

Personally, I absolutely believe we must keep him no matter what!