During his recent appearance on TVA Sports, Kent Hughes addressed a hot topic that has been fueling much speculation: the situation of Arber Xhekaj.
Xhekaj, now in Laval and currently surpassed by Jayden Struble in the hierarchy of left-handed defensemen, had sparked rumors of a possible trade in recent weeks.
Regarding a potential trade of the 22-year-old defenseman, Hughes made a major statement that will likely please many fans.
"Our plans are not to trade Arber Xhekaj. He is not in the American League because he is no longer in our plans. Arber was injured last year and again this year. Last year, we did not have the means to place him in the American League.
This year, Struble has shown that he is ready." - Kent Hughes
Therefore, the Canadiens' GM confirms that the plan is not to trade Xhekaj. The organization believes greatly in his potential, and he also brings a very rare dimension to a team.
Hughes asserts that Xhekaj's time in Laval is not a punishment; on the contrary, it is intended to help him progress in his game so that he can become the best version of himself when he reaches his full potential with the Canadiens.
This decision seems to be bearing fruit, as Xhekaj has become a top defender with the Rocket. He is also confirming his underrated offensive potential with a tally of 11 points in 15 games at Laval.
According to Hughes' statements, if a defenseman is sacrificed to add offensive talent to the CH eventually, Xhekaj has nothing to worry about, as he is not going anywhere.
