A sign and trade by Kent Hughes of the Montreal Canadiens has just been addressed by a reputable source

Arber Xhekaj could become Martin St-Louis' biggest blue-line question before Montreal Canadiens training camp even opens.

The Canadiens still have Xhekaj and Zachary Bolduc unsigned, leaving general manager Kent Hughes with two restricted free-agent files that could connect directly to Montreal's next trade.

The possibility gaining traction is a sign-and-trade before September 16, when the NHL's new collective bargaining agreement takes effect. That gives Montreal a clear window to explore a more creative move.

Xhekaj's situation stands out because Montreal's blue line could become crowded quickly if Hughes lands the experienced right-shot defenseman he has been seeking.

Adding that type of defender beside Lane Hutson would put pressure on Xhekaj's regular spot. And a player with his physical edge could carry real value for another club looking to get tougher on the back end.

Montreal has already shown it's willing to use this type of transaction. The Canadiens acquired Noah Dobson after he agreed to a new contract before changing teams.

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That precedent matters because Hughes is still looking for more than defensive help. Montreal also wants to strengthen its top six, with a second-line center sitting high on the wish list.

Xhekaj could become part of a bigger Canadiens move

Bolduc adds another layer. Montreal would prefer to keep the young forward, but landing an established offensive piece usually requires sending meaningful value the other way.

That puts both unsigned players in an interesting spot. A new contract doesn't automatically mean either one stays in Montreal if Hughes finds a deal that improves the roster immediately.

Xhekaj carries a different profile than Montreal's other defensemen. His size and physical style give St-Louis an option that can change the tone of a game, especially when matchups become heavier.

But roster construction can outweigh style. If another right-shot defenseman arrives, Montreal would need to decide whether keeping Xhekaj in a reduced role makes more sense than moving him for help elsewhere.

Hughes has also made it clear he won't force a trade simply to satisfy outside pressure. That patience could stretch negotiations deeper into the offseason if the right return isn't available.

The September 16 date now gives this situation a natural pressure point. Xhekaj's next contract could end the speculation, or become the first step toward one of Montreal's biggest roster moves before camp.

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A sign and trade by Kent Hughes of the Montreal Canadiens has just been addressed by a reputable source