Canadiens Facing Key Decision Between Xhekaj and Struble This Summer – The Hockey Writers – Montreal Canadiens
The Montreal Canadiens are quietly approaching a decision point that could shape the identity of their blue line for years to come. With a wave of young defencemen pushing from below and roster spots becoming increasingly valuable, the organization may be forced to choose between two familiar names this summer, Arber Xhekaj and Jayden Struble.
The Debate
This isn’t a new conversation. In fact, the debate between Xhekaj and Struble has been ongoing since last season, and it has only intensified as both players continue to fight for stability in Montreal’s lineup.
Xhekaj remains one of the most polarizing players on the roster. A fan favourite at the Bell Centre, he brings a dimension that few others on the team can replicate. His physicality, willingness to drop the gloves, and raw edge make him a unique presence on the Canadiens’ blue line. He can change the tone of a game with a single hit, and there’s a sense that teammates feel a bit safer when he’s on the ice.
But for all the intangibles, there are clear concerns from the coaching staff. Trust has been an issue. Xhekaj has found himself in and out of the lineup at times, and his decision-making without the puck has occasionally limited his role. While his upside is intriguing, the Canadiens seem hesitant to rely on him in key defensive situations.
On the other side, Struble has quietly carved out a reputation as the more dependable option. He may not have the same edge or fanfare as Xhekaj, but his game appears to align more closely with what the coaching staff values. Struble is steady, mobile, and capable of handling structured defensive minutes. That trust has shown up in usage as well; he has even spent time playing alongside Lane Hutson over the past two seasons, a sign that the organization is comfortable putting him in meaningful situations.
Struble doesn’t bring the same physical intimidation, but he offers consistency. And for a team trying to compete, that reliability carries weight.
The Next Wave Is Coming
If this were simply a battle between two young defencemen, the Canadiens might be able to afford patience. But the reality is that help is on the way, and quickly. David Reinbacher is not far from making a serious push for a full-time NHL role. The 2023 top-five pick has taken clear steps forward in his development and is trending toward being NHL-ready as early as next season. His profile as a right-shot, two-way defenceman with strong positional play makes him exactly the kind of player Montreal will want in its top four sooner rather than later.
Then there’s Adam Engström, who continues to develop and is beginning to enter the conversation as a legitimate option. Engström adds to the growing logjam on the left side. And that’s where things get complicated. Montreal could also explore adding a veteran defenceman this summer, especially if the team feels ready to take another step forward. That would only tighten the competition further and increase the likelihood that a decision has to be made.
A Decision Looming
All signs point to this summer as a potential turning point. Xhekaj is set to become a restricted free agent, which adds another layer to the situation. The Canadiens will need to decide not only whether he fits into their long-term plans, but also what kind of contract he’s worth. Do they invest in his unique skill set and hope his defensive game continues to mature? Or do they pivot toward a more predictable, steady option like Struble?
There’s also the asset management side of things. Both players still hold value, and moving one could help address other needs, whether that’s forward depth, draft capital, or even packaging a deal for a more established defenceman.
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What makes this decision particularly interesting is that it’s not just about who is better today; it’s about projection. Xhekaj arguably has the more unique ceiling because of what he brings physically, something that’s increasingly rare in today’s NHL. But Struble may offer a higher floor, and coaches tend to lean toward players they can trust shift after shift.
With Reinbacher knocking on the door and Engström not far behind, the Canadiens may not have the luxury of keeping both. This summer could force their hand. And whichever direction they choose, it will say a lot about how they envision the future of their blue line, whether they prioritize edge and identity, or stability and structure.
