The trade value of Arber Xhekaj is growing, and although the Canadiens kept him, there is palpable disappointment among some NHL executives.
It is said that he would have the same trade value as Alexander Romanov, which is far from trivial, considering he was traded for the 13th overall pick. Not bad for a player who was never drafted!
Xhekaj has had an inconsistent season, but since his return from Laval and being paired with David Savard, he has been completely transformed. He is no longer considered a third-pair defenseman, but rather a top-four defenseman.
His place in the lineup is confirmed unless proven otherwise, and he is done rotating with Jordan Harris, Johnathan Kovacevic, and Jayden Struble.
We do not know Kent Hughes' intentions, but one thing is certain; to receive, you must give. If the general manager intends to acquire a talented young forward, the price to pay may well be Arber Xhekaj.
