Kaiden Guhle just sent a big message to the Canadiens regarding Arber Xhekaj
Since last year, Arber Xhekaj's name has been widely circulated in various speculations surrounding the Montreal Canadiens, including numerous trade rumors.
After a first season in the NHL where he quickly became a fan favorite, the rugged defenseman has gone through several difficult stretches in recent months, even going so far as to be traded to the Laval Rocket, due to his level of play.
Martin St-Louis' treatment of him has often been criticized, the head coach not seeming to be a big admirer of the 23-year-old's style of play.
On several occasions, Xhekaj has lost confidence in himself and his abilities, which has sown doubts about his potential with the Canadiens, despite the many assets he can bring to a team.
St. Louis even relegated him to the seventh defenseman role a few times, which seemed to be a sign of lack of confidence in the 6-foot-3, 238-pound rearguard.
Personalities such as Georges Laraque suggested that he could be traded, as the head coach did not seem to appreciate Xhekaj at his true value.
However, the last few games showed a Xhekaj whose level of play seems to have taken a leap, particularly in the defensive zone, where he now protects his territory much better.
Kaiden Guhle sends a strong message to the Canadiens management regarding Arber Xhekaj
During the last game against the Edmonton Oilers, Xhekaj was voted player of the game in the locker room, even though he did not score.
A strong play on his part, a hard-hitting check against Zach Hyman, turned the tide of the game, according to what was reported by Kaiden Guhle.
Here's the contact in question:
This is the essence of what Xhekaj can bring to the Canadiens: the ability to change the course of a game with a decisive check or with his physical presence, when necessary.
He excels by playing to his abilities and stands out as the only player on the team capable of combining toughness and talent, with a natural ability to defend his teammates and make his presence felt on the ice.
Xhekaj is a rare commodity in the NHL, and if he continues to improve his defensive game, Martin St-Louis will definitely no longer be able to afford to ignore him in the lineup.
