Arber Xhekaj remains unsigned as Martin St-Louis faces a crowded Canadiens blue line and a difficult roster decision.
Montreal hasn't signaled that a trade is close, but Xhekaj's contract status keeps the door open to speculation as training camp approaches.
The 6-foot-4 defenseman has built a strong following through his physical style, willingness to defend teammates and unlikely path into the NHL.
That popularity won't decide the file. Kent Hughes must determine whether Xhekaj's specialized impact outweighs the value he could return in a trade.
Montreal already has Lane Hutson, Noah Dobson, Kaiden Guhle, Mike Matheson, Alexandre Carrier and Jayden Struble competing for NHL minutes.
David Reinbacher and Adam Engstrom are also pushing toward full-time work, creating a numbers problem that cannot be ignored forever.
Montreal may be forced to sacrifice Arber Xhekaj in wild roster move
Reinbacher still projects as a top-four option and needs meaningful NHL deployment to continue his development. Engstrom has also moved closer to earning a roster spot.
If both prospects make a strong camp impression, St-Louis could be left rotating capable defensemen through the press box.
Xhekaj would attract interest because his profile remains difficult to replace. He brings size, emotion, physical pressure and an immediate response when opponents target Montreal's skilled players.
He has also improved with the puck and in his positioning, making him more than a one-dimensional depth option.
The concern is his usage. Xhekaj wasn't trusted as an everyday postseason defenseman, raising questions about whether Montreal views him as a permanent piece or a matchup specialist.
Hughes shouldn't move him for a routine draft pick simply to clear space. A trade only makes sense if Xhekaj helps land a top-six forward or another clear roster upgrade.
The Canadiens also need protection against injuries. Carrying 8 NHL-calibre defensemen may look excessive in October, but depth can disappear quickly over a long season.
For now, the smart move is patience. Montreal can continue contract talks, evaluate Reinbacher and Engstrom at camp, then decide whether Xhekaj's role still justifies keeping him.
Source : Canadiens need to consider trading Arber Xhekaj
Should the Canadiens trade Arber Xhekaj for top-six help?
Also read on Markerzone.com:
Detroit Red Wings make major decision following the firing of GM Steve Yzerman
