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Arber Xhekaj soon to be traded? His exact value is known and it's very surprising
When the Canadiens decided to send Arber Xhekaj to Laval, trade rumors multiplied, and there were significant doubts about his value.
However, it is now evident that his time with the Rocket is beneficial, and his valuable assets for an NHL team are becoming apparent.
The sheriff has a surprisingly high offensive sense, much more than anticipated. His wrist shot is excellent, and his physical stature is equally impressive. Mathias Brunet has written an article on the subject, stating that Xhekaj's value is very high.
"Xhekaj, 22 years old, undoubtedly has greater value than Harris and Struble due to a combination of offensive skills, imposing size at 6 feet 4 inches and 240 pounds, and pugilistic talent. It is said he could fetch a first-round pick. [...] But Struble's game is not devoid of toughness either; he provides better defensive performance and is nine months younger." - Via La Presse
Once matured, Xhekaj could become a complete defenseman, excelling on both ends of the ice and offering an impressive physical presence.
So, it's understood why the Canadiens sent him to Laval. It's not because he's on the market, although his value and the offers Kent Hughes might receive could be tempting.
Let's not forget that the Islanders paid a high price to acquire Alexander Romanov, allowing Hughes to acquire Kirby Dach. Xhekaj could be worth even more, which is significant.
"There's congestion on the left side of the defense, especially with the recent emergence of Jayden Struble. There's Mike Matheson, Kaiden Guhle, Struble. Jordan Harris, a lefty, has been moved to the right and forms a pair with Struble. Arber Xhekaj, a regular in Montreal last year, continues his development in Laval."
Don't forget Lane Hutson and Adam Engstrom, who are likely coming at the end of their respective seasons. It's starting to get crowded for three or four positions.
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 13 | 573 ANSWERS Arber Xhekaj soon to be traded? His exact value is known and it's very surprising Would you trade Xhekaj for a first-round pick? | ||
| Yes | 179 | 31.2 % |
| No | 394 | 68.8 % |
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