Jan 25, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj (72) prepares for a face off against the New Jersey Devils during the second period at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

We just got our answer regarding Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj.

It’s not what we were hoping for, but head coach Martin St-Louis just announced in a press conference that there will be no changes to the Habs lineup tonight.

That means Joshua Roy and Arber Xhekaj will once again be sent to the press box, while Michael Pezzetta will once again suit up.. Wow!

No Arber Xhekaj and no Joshua Roy for Martin St-Louis and the Montreal Canadiens tonight

Check out the confirmation from TVA Sports journalist Renaud Lavoie and Eric Engels right here:

I know someone who’s going to be extremely happy to hear this news, the Sheriff unfortunately won’t be able to pay a visit to Niko Mikkola tonight..

So there will be no showdown between Xhekaj and Niko Mikkola live from the Bell Centre like everyone expected.

“No changes to the lineup tonight, says MSL.

Xhekaj scratched.

Pezzetta IN.

Heineman with Newhook and Laine.”

– Anthony Martineau, TVA Sports

Will Michael Pezzetta, as Georges Laraque believes, be able to send a message to the Panthers’ giant defenseman?

One thing’s for sure, seeing Pezzetta in the lineup ahead of Arber Xhekaj and Joshua Roy, especially for the Canadiens’ most important game of the season.. I definitely didn’t have that on my bingo card, but I’m really curious to see how it plays out.

More details to come.