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Canadiens targeting defensive help as Arber Xhekaj’s spot in jeopardy

Canadiens targeting defensive help as Arber Xhekaj's spot in jeopardy
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Jan 12, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj (72) defends the puck against the Vancouver Canucks during the third period at Bell Centre.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Kent Hughes is seriously active on the trade market, and Arber Xhekaj’s name is on everyone’s lips this morning.

Let’s be clear, the situation is becoming critical for the Sheriff at the Bell Centre. Marc-Olivier Beaudoin relayed information from Elliotte Friedman confirming that the Habs are targeting a defenseman, which directly weakens the status of number 72.

We have to be honest, Xhekaj’s ice time does not lie since the start of the season.

“The Canadiens are exploring options on defense.”

We often hear about the search for help in the top six, but Friedman mentions that Kent Hughes is looking at the market for defensive help.

Not very surprising considering Arber Xhekaj’s usage.

At the same time, I want him in the lineup for Game 1 of the playoffs.

– Beaudoin

Martin St-Louis appears to have lost patience and is looking for reliable execution that the towering defenseman has struggled to provide consistently.

Management clearly wants a more dependable sixth defenseman to stabilize the unit.

If Hughes secures his target, Xhekaj could find himself in the press box-or potentially leveraged as trade capital before the deadline.

Losing such an intimidating physical presence just before the playoffs carries significant risk.

There is no denying it, Arber Xhekaj’s physical edge remains a unique asset in the current lineup.

Arber Xhekaj’s role in jeopardy as Kent Hughes scans market for defensive upgrade

The Canadiens could opt for a veteran capable of ensuring clean, efficient transitions without costly mistakes.

Noticing opposing scouts closely monitoring our players is never a coincidence.

“According to Elliotte Friedman, the Canadiens are interested in Rasmus Ristolainen. His agent is the same as Patrik Laine’s.”

– Nicolas Cloutier

Kent Hughes must juggle the salary cap while protecting his young prospects in Florida or Laval.

Moving a fan favorite would undoubtedly send shockwaves through Montreal supporters.

It remains to be seen whether a team will be willing to offer a compelling return for the left-shot defenseman.

The situation is gaining serious momentum, and developments over the coming weeks could be explosive.

Previously on All Montreal Hockey

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Canadiens targeting defensive help as Arber Xhekaj’s spot in jeopardy

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