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Xhekaj's NHL Debut Looms Amid Canadiens' Slump
22 Nov
Summary
- Florian Xhekaj, 21, may debut for Canadiens on Saturday.
- He has accumulated 44 penalty minutes in 16 games this season.
- The Canadiens are currently on a five-game losing streak.
The Montreal Canadiens may see a new face on the ice as 21-year-old winger Florian Xhekaj is poised to make his NHL debut on Saturday. The team will host the Toronto Maple Leafs, a matchup that could see Xhekaj take to the ice as the Canadiens aim to halt their current five-game losing streak. Xhekaj's potential debut adds an element of anticipation to a game with significant implications for the team's momentum.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 204 pounds, Xhekaj has demonstrated his physical style of play in the AHL with the Laval Rocket. This season, he has recorded two goals, two assists, and accumulated 44 penalty minutes across 16 games. Last season, his penalty minutes were notably high, with 175 in 69 regular-season games and an additional 59 in 10 playoff contests, showcasing his willingness to engage physically.
In related team news, forward Joshua Roy has been sent down to Laval after being recalled for two games, a move that precedes Xhekaj's potential NHL appearance. The Canadiens are undoubtedly hoping that the infusion of new talent and a change in lineup might provide the spark needed to overcome their recent struggles and improve their standing.
