NHL Trade : A bad news for Kent Hughes and Arber Xhekaj
After surprising many experts in his first campaign with the Montreal Canadiens, defenseman Arber Xhekaj did not experience the same success in 2023-2024, as he was bothered by an injury for much of the regular season.
This injury even necessitated a brief stint with the Laval Rocket. According to Marco Normandin, from the site Habsolumentfan.com, it may be that the Sheriff's time in Montreal is coming to an end.
NHL Trade Market: Sad News About Arber Xhekaj and It's Too Late According to Tony Marinaro
In reality, a defenseman with a big stature represents a rare commodity in the Bettman circuit, but his market value could excite many teams and could allow the Canadiens to acquire a top-6 offensive player.
On the radio journalist Tony Marinaro's side, he recently stated on BPM Sports that Xhekaj's value could have halved!
"It doesn't bode well. If he can't fight and be physical, he's less useful in the lineup. His value is half of what it was [before his injury]."
It's a harsh statement to hear! Especially considering that some experts were speculating about a potential first-round pick in exchange for the defenseman to his boss Kent Hughes.
In his explanations, Marinaro believes that the risk associated with the injuries suffered by Arber Xhekaj in 2023-2024 is enough to scare other NHL executives. It's a big risky bet if he can't fight or make his presence felt physically.
If his value is lower, it's possible that the Gorton-Hughes duo may decide to part ways with another young defenseman to acquire that famous top-6 attacker!
