The Montreal Canadiens were busy in the final days before training camp, and one of the last deals they announced was a one-year contract with restricted free agent Arber Xhekaj. On Thursday, the Canadiens' defenseman provided some insight into why it took so long to get a deal done.
"I think they were trying to make some moves that maybe didn't happen or free up some space. I don't know what's going to happen, but I am ready for whatever," Xhekaj said.
Even after rejoining the Canadiens, it is clear that Arber Xhekaj is not sure what exactly his role is going to be. The reason is that they have a crowded blueline, which is probably why they were looking to make a trade in hopes of creating a regular role for Xhekaj.
Although they didn't make a trade, Xhekaj should get a chance to prove he belongs in the lineup, as Kaiden Guhle is expected to miss a few weeks at the start of the season. However, once Guhle returns, the Canadiens find themselves right back in the same uncertainty they were prior to Xhekaj signing the contract.
Arber Xhekaj is open to the idea of changing positions to play forward
It seems like all options are on the table for Arber Xhekaj and the Montreal Canadiens with one of them moving him up to play with the forwards. They did give him one game last season with the forwards but injuries on the blueline required him to return to his natural position.
Xhekaj was asked about his thoughts on playing with the forwards:
"I got pretty good hands, a pretty good shot, and I can make plays. I'm not scared to try, and being a big body, watching Slaf and those guys play that role, I kind of learn a few things and I'd be okay if it came down to it."
The willingness of Xhekaj to shift positions isn't always seen from players, especially once they get to the NHL. It is clear that, from his perspective, he just wants to be on the ice and help the Canadiens win.
If a move to forwards is what is needed to make that happen, then Xhekaj will do that. It also opens up the possibility of Arber on the same line as his brother, Florian Xhekaj, and fans are probably hoping to see that at some point this season.
However, in the long term, the best place for Arber Xhekaj is on the blueline, and he would be a great physical presence for their third pair. That is a role that he could excel in and strengthen the Canadiens' blueline, but the reality of the situation is that when everyone is healthy, there just isn't enough room in the lineup with the roster as it currently is.
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