Arber Xhekaj and the Montreal Canadiens: Trade Bait or Future Core?
As the summer heat begins to fade, the anticipation in Montreal is reaching a fever pitch. With the Montreal Canadiens training camp just a month away and the season opener set for September 29th against the Toronto Maple Leafs, fans are asking one critical question: What is the final plan for the roster?
While General Manager Kent Hughes has maintained a relatively quiet public profile, behind the scenes, the chess pieces are moving. The rebuild is progressing, but a few glaring holes remain that could dictate the fate of several young players.
The Trade Blueprint: What Kent Hughes is Hunting
Kent Hughes has been transparent about his desires. To elevate the team’s competitiveness, the Habs are scouting for two specific profiles:
- A Top-Six Forward: Ideally, a high-impact second-line centre to provide offensive depth.
- An Experienced Right-Shot Defenceman: Someone who can provide a veteran presence and stability alongside the talented Lane Hutson.
Hughes has emphasized that he won’t make a “dumb trade” simply to satisfy the fanbase. The organization’s patience has been its greatest strength, ensuring they only strike when the perfect “dance partner” emerges.
The RFA Puzzle: The Fate of Arber Xhekaj and Zachary Bolduc
One of the most pressing storylines heading into September is the contract status of Arber Xhekaj and Zachary Bolduc. Both players remain restricted free agents (RFAs), leaving their future in Montreal uncertain.
For Arber Xhekaj, the situation is delicate. While his physicality and presence on the ice are undeniable, his path to a regular spot on the blue line becomes narrow if Hughes manages to land an experienced right-shot defender. This makes Xhekaj a prime candidate for a sign-and-trade deal, especially with the new NHL collective bargaining agreement (CBA) changes kicking in on September 16th.
Similarly, Zachary Bolduc has shown immense grit—particularly during the playoffs—but in the high-stakes world of NHL asset management, he could be the piece used to acquire that coveted top-six forward. Stay updated with the official Canadiens news to see if these contracts are signed before the deadline.
The Battle for the Crease: Montembeault and the Youth Movement
The goaltending situation is equally intriguing. Samuel Montembeault is facing a crossroads. After a dip in save percentage, he may start the season as the backup to Jakub Dobes. This strategy serves two purposes:
- Development: It allows the 21-year-old Jacob Fowler to gain essential playing time with the Laval Rocket without worrying about NHL waivers.
- Asset Value: If Montembeault can rediscover his form, his trade value increases significantly in the final year of his contract.
The Architect: Securing Martin St. Louis
Finally, there is the matter of the bench. Martin St. Louis has led a remarkable steady climb in the standings since taking over. From finishing last in 2021-22 to consistently improving the team’s point totals and making the playoffs, St. Louis has proven his worth as a leader.
With St. Louis entering the final year of his contract, a four-year extension would align his timeline with that of Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes, ensuring stability at the top of the organization. For more details on league-wide coaching trends, visit NHL.com.
Will the Habs make a splash before October, or will patience remain the primary strategy? One thing is certain: the fate of players like Arber Xhekaj will be pivotal in defining the Canadiens’ trajectory this season.
