For Montreal Canadiens fans, tonight marks a moment that’s been quietly brewing behind the scenes—one that few saw coming and even fewer believed would actually happen.

The Xhekaj brothers, Arber and Florian, have finally been dressed together for the first time in the same Canadiens lineup, breaking a long-standing organizational policy that kept them apart.

But why did the team go to such lengths to ensure these siblings never shared the ice? And what changed to finally bring them together?

Insiders and journalists have hinted at hidden reasons, from development strategies to behind-the-scenes debates, that kept the brothers separated even during training camp.

The organization’s sudden shift in philosophy this week has sparked wild speculation and excitement among fans, raising questions about what this means for the future of the team—and for the Xhekaj family.

Was it a calculated move, or an emotional decision? How will the brothers perform side by side, and could this be the beginning of a new chapter in Canadiens history?

The answers aren’t as simple as they seem. Dive deeper into the drama, the decisions, and the untold stories that led to this historic moment for Arber and Florian Xhekaj, and discover what might come next.

Photo of Florian Xhekaj and Arber Xhekaj

Photo credit: NHL

As we reported a little earlier, the Montreal Canadiens have thrown brothers Florian Xhekaj and Arber Xhekaj into the mix tonight.

It’s the very first time that both are in uniform together, at the same time, for the Montreal Canadiens.

This is a major shift in direction for the Canadiens since, according to journalist Renaud Lavoie this morning on BPM Sports, the organization had never wanted to accommodate the Xhekaj brothers in the past.

There has clearly been a change in philosophy this week.

The Canadiens refused to dress Arber Xhekaj and Florian Xhekaj in the same lineup (until today)

So this is really special for them.

“Because of their age difference, the two guys have never played together before.

It could have happened at camp in 2024, but Renaud Lavoie (on BPM Sports) said that last year, the Habs did everything they could to ensure the two guys didn’t end up in the same lineup.”

– Charles-Alexis Brisebois

One could assume the Habs wanted to see how Florian would handle himself without his brother.

“We did everything last year to make sure they didn’t end up in the same lineup!” – Renaud Lavoie, on the Xhekaj brothers

He clearly proved himself last season, and now this year, they finally get the chance to play together!