Canadiens make multiple lineup decisions ahead of game vs the Jets as Arber Xhekaj gets scratched
Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
We have a last-minute development involving Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj.
Xhekaj is currently practicing as an extra during the Canadiens’ morning skate live from Winnipeg, so you know what that means.
Arber Xhekaj removed from the Montreal Canadiens lineup by Martin St-Louis, Jayden Struble back in and Patrik Laine still in the stands
We have our answers, and we even have the identity of tonight’s starting goaltender:
"Tonight’s changes: Montembeault starts, Struble enters, Xhekaj exits"
- Montreal Canadiens
- Montreal Canadiens
"Canadiens’ morning skate in Winnipeg:
No changes up front. Patrik Laine is an extra.
Jayden Struble is in the lineup, replacing Arber Xhekaj."
No changes up front. Patrik Laine is an extra.
Jayden Struble is in the lineup, replacing Arber Xhekaj."
It will therefore be Montembeault’s first start since January 24.
The Montreal Canadiens have indeed just confirmed their lineup for tonight’s game, and let’s just say Martin St-Louis is not afraid to shake things up.
Arber Xhekaj, our national "Sheriff," will watch the game from up in the press box.
We can all agree this is never a trivial decision—especially when it involves scratching a fan favorite who brings as much physicality as he does.
The organization announced that Jayden Struble will take his place in the lineup, a choice that clearly shows what the coach is prioritizing at the moment.
In net, Samuel Montembeault will get the nod to face the Manitoba opponent.
Is the message getting through to Arber Xhekaj this season?
That’s the question everyone is asking.
This isn’t the first time No. 72 has had to eat popcorn, and you can feel that the leash is short.
With congestion on the blue line, every mistake comes at a high cost in ice time.
Struble, for his part, has a golden opportunity to prove that he should never come out of Martin St-Louis’ lineup again.
Let’s hope the Canadiens don’t get pushed around too often tonight without their enforcer there to answer the bell.
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