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Montreal Canadiens: Georges Laraque Reveals His Top Five Tough Guys

By Tyler Major-Mcnicol

UNIONDALE, NY - APRIL 02: George Laracque #17 of the Montreal Canadiens skates against the New York Islanders on April 2, 2009 at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, New York. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
UNIONDALE, NY - APRIL 02: George Laracque #17 of the Montreal Canadiens skates against the New York Islanders on April 2, 2009 at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, New York. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /
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During Thursday night’s installment of The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro, he and his guest, former Montreal Canadiens tough guy and Quebec native, Georges Laraque touched on the added toughness in the Atlantic Division. Laraque’s passion for the fisticuffs on ice has translated into his off-ice media career, and he continues to discuss fighting in the sport and its importance. His most recent thoughts, were particularly interesting when he told Marinaro who believes are the top five toughest guys in the league.

To point out the obvious right away, Arber Xhekaj is featured on the list, and Laraque was adamant about his place in the group. Three of the five players will call the Atlantic Division their home this season, and the final two will play in the Metropolitan and Central Division. Laraque’s top five features three forwards and two defensemen, and should Xhekaj stay atop the list, he will need to show his stuff this season.

Marinaro questioned whether Xhekaj had been given some advice on technique and such, as Michael Pezzetta had been given in the past. Laraque refused to answer, but given Xhekaj’s rank, it appears that Laraque has tremendous confidence in the Canadiens’ bruising blueliner. There is no doubt he is in the heavyweight class of the league, but his ranking will certainly gain attention, and he will have to defend his rank.

Number 1 – Arber Xhekaj

Of the top five players in Laraque’s ranking, Arber Xhekaj is the most skilled, and the youngest of the pack, which speaks to the kind of player that he is. Canadiens fans know what they’ve got with Xhekaj, and the league has taken notice, which he is unphased by. He knows that he isn’t a small guy, and he earned respect because of what he was able to do.

Some may argue that he is a little high on the list, and while you may be right, this is Laraque’s opinion, and he deserves the respect to at least be heard. Xhekaj has an immediate trait that stands out in his fighting style, he rushes his opponent and swings for the fences, giving them no opportunity to respond until a couple of haymakers have been landed. His 6’4” 235+lbs frame is imposing, and his physical strength makes him a tough customer, so he certainly warrants a spot on the list.

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