What's happening with Arber Xhekaj? The Sheriff is missing as a protector for his teammates

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Elias Edmonson
December 29, 2023 (5:22 PM)

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A small update on what's currently happening with fan favourite Arber Xhekaj with the Rocket, and let's just say it's raising many questions and concerns.

Those who feared that the Canadiens would change the Sheriff's nature will not be reassured.

Take a look at a part from the excellent Mathieu Paradis's report:

« Several players were getting roughed up without retaliation. Arber Xhekaj was watching the parade go by with his arms at his sides, as if someone had handcuffed his fists to his thighs. At the end of the game, he had the opportunity to defend Dobes, who had just been hooked by an opponent again. A few words and that was the end of the scuffle. Tempers flared in the last two minutes of the game and it was Riley Kidney who seemed the most fired up to defend Brady Keeper. Riley Kidney! You read that right. »

- TSLH

This is clearly not the Xhekaj we knew, but he's just following the instructions of his bosses.

He must certainly be tempted to mix things up and defend his teammates, but he's evidently afraid that it might prolong his stay away from the National Hockey League.

His mission is to refine his defensive play and reduce his penalty minutes. That's what he's doing, nothing more.

Xhekaj, 22 years old, 6 feet 4 inches and 240 pounds, has accumulated 5 points in 8 games with the Rocket this season. (4 penalty minutes and a differential of -2)

Are you worried about Xhekaj? Do you think he will be called up by the Canadiens relatively quickly?

Credit and details:

Credit: Toutsurlehockey.com