Xhekaj Nearing New Canadiens Contract
Montreal Canadiens Nearing New Contract With Defensman Arber Xhekaj Before Training Camp
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Key Points
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Xhekaj appeared in 65 regular-season games last season, recording one goal, four points, 116 penalty minutes and a team-leading 178 hits. He also scored once and added an assist in 13 playoff games.
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The defenseman is coming off a two-year, $2.6 million contract with a $1.3 million annual salary-cap hit; he originally joined Montreal as an undrafted free agent in 2021.
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Xhekaj’s reported role last season was limited: he averaged 11:25 of ice time per game and was not an everyday player during Montreal’s playoff run, despite appearing in 13 games.
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Pierre LeBrun cautioned that the agreement was not complete, writing, “Talks are progressing and things are getting closer on a new deal ... Not done yet, but the expectation is that he’ll be at camp and signed.”
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The Canadiens’ season-opening events also included Josh Anderson being named an alternate captain and Martin St. Louis receiving a multiyear contract extension, providing broader organizational context as Montreal prepares for camp.
The Montreal Canadiens and restricted free-agent defenseman Arber Xhekaj have finalized a contract agreement. CityNews Montreal reported that Xhekaj signed a one-year deal worth $1.5 million, ending weeks of negotiation between the two sides. The 25-year-old will now join his teammates at training camp after missing the team's golf tournament while unsigned.
Xhekaj's new contract comes after he appeared in 65 regular-season games last year, recording 1 goal, 4 points, and a team-leading 178 hits with 116 penalty minutes. Playing time was reportedly a bigger concern than salary during talks, as the defenseman averaged just 11:25 of ice time per game and saw limited action during Montreal's playoff run.
Tough Defenseman Adds Physicality to Montreal's Lineup
Xhekaj's size and physicality make him a unique asset on the Canadiens' blue line. The undrafted free agent who joined Montreal in 2021 threw 178 hits last season—more than any teammate. His toughness and willingness to play a physical game distinguish him from other defensemen on the roster.
Contract Details Signal New Deal for Upcoming Season
CityNews Montreal confirmed the defenseman signed a one-year contract carrying a $1.5 million cap hit. This represents an increase from his previous two-year deal worth $2.6 million total ($1.3 million annual cap hit). The new agreement keeps Xhekaj in Montreal for the upcoming season.
Playing Time Remains Uncertain Despite Contract Signing
Securing the deal does not guarantee Xhekaj a regular role. The defenseman's 11:25 average ice time last season shows he was not an everyday player. Montreal's crowded defensive corps means he will need to compete for minutes during training camp and the regular season.
Canadiens Prepare for Training Camp With New Leadership
Xhekaj's signing is part of the Canadiens' off-season moves. CityNews Montreal reported that Josh Anderson was also named an alternate captain, and Martin St. Louis received a multiyear contract extension. These moves set the stage as Montreal prepares for camp with a revamped roster and leadership structure.
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