Last night’s clash between the Montreal Canadiens and the Philadelphia Flyers delivered more than just the usual preseason drama—it gave fans an unforgettable moment that quickly became the talk of the hockey world.

As the spotlight fell on promising youngster Florian Xhekaj, the energy inside the arena shifted from excitement to pure adrenaline in a matter of seconds.

After notching his first goal of the preseason, Florian didn’t just celebrate; he made a bold statement by squaring off with one of the NHL’s most notorious enforcers, Nicolas Deslauriers.

But what happened next was far from predictable. In the aftermath of the gloves being dropped, an unexpected exchange unfolded between the rookie and the seasoned veteran—one that left reporters and fans buzzing long after the final whistle.

What did Deslauriers say to Xhekaj in the penalty box? Was it a warning, a challenge, or something much more surprising?

The details, revealed only after the game, shed light on a side of NHL rivalry that few ever get to witness. If you thought you knew how these battles end, think again. Behind the bruises and bravado, a story of respect and sportsmanship emerged—one you won’t want to miss.

Photo of Florian Xhekaj and Nicolas Deslauriers

Photo credit: NHL

We got quite a moment last night during the game between the Montreal Canadiens and the Philadelphia Flyers, involving Florian Xhekaj.

The youngster scored his first goal of the preseason.

And after that, Arber’s little brother followed in his big brother’s footsteps, dropping the gloves against one of the toughest enforcers in the entire NHL, Nicolas Deslauriers.

Deslauriers, for his part, showed a lot of class toward young Xhekaj with an unexpected gesture.

But that’s not all!

In his postgame media availability, Florian Xhekaj gave more details about what Deslauriers told him after the fight, and once again it shows just how much of a true pro Deslauriers really is.

Florian Xhekaj reveals what Nicolas Deslauriers told him after the fight

Here’s what Sportsnet reporter Eric Engels shared.

I Asked Florian Xhekaj if he knew Arber Xhekaj had fought Nic Deslauriers before.

“He told me in the penalty box he had to get both brothers,” Florian joked.

“He was saying lots of stuff in the penalty box. He was saying, ‘Good job, man. You held your own in there.’”

So, Deslauriers kind of played the role of big brother for young Florian Xhekaj right after they dropped the gloves, and it was really something to see!

Kudos to Florian, and kudos to Deslauriers!

It’s yet another reminder of how powerful sportsmanship can be in the NHL.