Multiple Teams Want Xhekaj — Montreal Holding Firm on Trade Stance

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj remains unsigned, which has apparently opened the door for rival GMs to dial up Kent Hughes and explore what it might cost to acquire him in a trade.

According to insider David Pagnotta, several clubs have quietly checked in about acquiring the physical, fan-favorite defenseman over the past few weeks. None of those calls have gone anywhere. Montreal, by Pagnotta’s account, hasn’t found a package worth their while — and more importantly, doesn’t actually want to move on from him.

At the same time, Xhekaj isn’t looking to leave. Agent Brian Bartlett has been clear that his client isn’t angling for an exit. “He loves playing in Montreal, he loves the fans, he loves the city…Our hope collectively…is that we can find a way to make it work in Montreal.”

But this is a business, and both Xhekaj and Jayden Struble want a bigger role. There might not be room for both.

Bartlett added, “The Montreal Canadiens are going to do what’s best (for them), and Arber Xhekaj will do what’s best (for him)…We still have a lot of time until training camp; there’s no panic.”It sounds like both sides are saying they’d rather find a way to make it work in Montreal than force a split.

The bigger complication for outside teams: Xhekaj’s actual contract status. He’s a restricted free agent who skipped the arbitration deadline, meaning he’s technically offer-sheet eligible. His camp and the Canadiens are still negotiating, with talks described as “status quo.” No blowup, no breakthrough, just ongoing back-and-forth.

That leaves rival teams in a bit of a holding pattern. They know the Canadiens aren’t going to make a move until it’s clear one is required.

The Philadelphia Flyers have emerged as the most persistent suitor. Their interest in Xhekaj isn’t new; it’s been on the radar for a couple of seasons and, per Pagnotta, still hasn’t cooled off. Calgary has also been floated as a team keeping tabs on the situation, though nothing suggests a deal is close.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Oilers, Sharks & Senators Hit Snag