Arber Xhekaj is a rare name in the NHL. He plays for the Montreal Canadiens. His size and strength make him a standout player in Canada.
He was born in Hamilton, Ontario. He didn’t get drafted but joined the Canadiens Montréal in 2021. A year later, he made his debut. His playing style is both tough and modern.
He’s known as “Wi‑Fi” and “the Sheriff.” By October 17, 2024, he played 100 NHL games. His journey is filled with hard work and success.
Arber’s story is one of determination. He played for Kitchener and Hamilton in the OHL. His first playoff game was against Washington in 2025. He’s more than just strength for the Canadiens.
In the 2024–25 season, he played 70 games. He scored 1 goal, had 5 assists, and took 118 penalties. He also had 180 hits. His family background adds to his unique NHL journey.
Profile at a Glance: Size, Style, and the Making of a Montreal Favourite
Arber Xhekaj is a left-shot player who fits right into the Montreal Canadiens defence. He combines style and physicality in a unique way. His grooming shows his focus, both on and off the ice.
Physical tools: 6-foot-4, 240 lbs, left shot, defence
Standing at 6-foot-4 and 240 pounds, he shoots left and plays defence. His size lets him close gaps fast and win battles for the puck. In the Montreal Canadiens defence, his size is a game-changer.
| Attribute | Detail | On-Ice Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Height/Weight | 6’4″, 240 lbs | Wins net-front battles; clears the crease with authority |
| Shooting Hand | Left | Clean exits on the left wall; strong point presence |
| Skating Base | Power stride | Closes space quickly; compresses rush lanes |
| Calling Card | Style and physicality | Sets tone early; draws crowd energy and momentum |
Undrafted to NHL: signing with the Montreal Canadiens in October 2021
Despite being undrafted twice, he made a strong impression. He signed a three-year deal with the Canadiens on October 4, 2021. This move marked him as a promising player in the Montreal Canadiens defence.
Experts saw him as a late-bloomer, with growth linked to his poise and skills. For more on his age group’s impact on the blue line, check out this team preview and player profiles.
Nicknames and identity: “Wi‑Fi,” “the Sheriff,” and a throwback enforcer blend
His nickname Wi‑Fi is memorable, thanks to his surname. He’s like “the Sheriff,” stepping in when games get rough. His balance of grit and grooming makes him stand out.
- Wi‑Fi nickname: a wink to fans, a marker of presence
- Throwback feel: checks, clears, and protects the slot
- Modern edge: keeps the puck moving under pressure
First NHL with surname starting with X: debut on October 12, 2022
His NHL debut on October 12, 2022, was a big moment. He played simple, hit hard, and controlled the left side. His profile grew, showing strength, swagger, and a perfect fit in the Montreal Canadiens defence.
That night, he showed maturity beyond his years. His shifts were short, his reads were sharp, and the bench trusted him. It was a start that matched his style and hinted at more to come.
From Hamilton Roots to OHL Breakthrough
Arber Xhekaj grew up in the heart of Hamilton hockey. He learned to rely on grit, timing, and smart plays. His journey in the OHL was not always easy, but it made him sharper and more skilled.
Minor hockey setbacks: going undrafted in the OHL Priority Selection
He played for the Hamilton Huskies, showing great poise. But, he was overlooked in the 2017 OHL Priority Selection. This setback pushed him to work even harder, focusing on strength and quick thinking in tight spots.
St. Catharines Falcons and Kitchener Rangers invite
He played for the St. Catharines Falcons in the GOJHL, gaining confidence. The Kitchener Rangers took notice and invited him to camp in 2018. He made the team and found his place, showing that his path could be unconventional yet successful.
Hamilton Bulldogs trade, 2022 J. Ross Robertson Cup, and Memorial Cup All‑Star
In 2021–22, he was traded to the Hamilton Bulldogs. He brought a fierce edge to the game, excelling in retrievals and under pressure. His efforts led to the 2022 J. Ross Robertson Cup and a spot as a Memorial Cup All-Star.
Work ethic during COVID pause: shifts at Costco, shifts in development
During the pandemic, he worked at Costco in Hamilton. This kept him focused and built his stamina. He returned to hockey with a calmer approach and a stronger foundation, ready to face tough opponents.
| Stage | Team/League | Year(s) | Role and Growth Markers | Notable Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minor Roots | Hamilton Huskies (Minor) | Pre‑2017 | Competed in Hamilton hockey; learned gap control and timing | Went undrafted in OHL Priority Selection |
| Junior B Proving Ground | St. Catharines Falcons (GOJHL) | 2017–2018 | Added strength; simplified exits; earned attention | Kitchener Rangers training camp invite |
| OHL Entry | Kitchener Rangers (OHL) | 2018–2020 | Established shutdown presence; cleaner puck movement | Secured full OHL role; pandemic paused 2020–21 |
| Breakthrough Trade | Hamilton Bulldogs (OHL) | 2021–2022 | Heavy minutes; net‑front clears; poised breakouts | Won 2022 J. Ross Robertson Cup |
| National Stage | CHL Memorial Cup | 2022 | Physical, disciplined style vs elite clubs | Named Memorial Cup All‑Star |
| Pandemic Grind | Costco + Individual Training | 2020–2021 | Built work capacity; refined footwork and balance | Returned stronger for OHL path continuation |
Breaking into the Canadiens Lineup: Preseason Buzz to Opening Night
He was set to start in Laval but changed plans during the Canadiens preseason. His aggressive play caught everyone’s attention. The excitement grew from Ottawa to Montreal, with NHL news Montreal Canadiens leading the way.
The Montreal Gazette Montreal Canadiens coverage highlighted how a strong camp can quickly alter plans.
Impressing at rookie camp and preseason with a physical edge
At rookie camp, he showed his strength with clean hits and simple passes. This skill carried over to exhibition games, where he excelled at closing gaps and defending. His hits were always on target, showing no signs of slowing down.
Roster opportunity amid injuries to veterans
With Mike Matheson and Joel Edmundson out, a spot opened up on the left side. On October 10, 2022, he made the opening night roster. This move brought a much-needed boost of size and toughness to the team.
Early NHL moments: first assist, first goal, and the Kassian fight
His NHL debut was on October 12, 2022. He got his first assist on October 15 against Washington. Then, he stood up to Zack Kassian in a notable fight, seen everywhere in NHL news Montreal Canadiens.
On October 22, he scored his first NHL goal and added an assist against Dallas. This confirmed his impressive preseason performance was real.
From rookie camp to the opening night roster, he brought a modern, forceful style. Fans recognized it immediately. The Montreal Gazette Montreal Canadiens pieces framed his rise as timely, keeping the Canadiens preseason excitement alive.
Development Arc: From Growing Pains to Defensive Refinement
Arber Xhekaj’s journey has been steady and thoughtful. It’s been shaped by his coaches and patient player development. He faced tough nights, learned to read the game better, and improved his stickhandling.
His path also includes Laval, where he honed his skills. Here, he focused on the details and kept up with the pace.
2022–23 snapshot: 51 GP, 5G, 8A, leading the team in PIM
In 2022–23, he played in 51 games, scoring 5 goals and assisting 8 times. He also led Montreal in penalty minutes. Despite his edge, he knew he needed to work on his defensive refinement.
A shoulder surgery in late February ended his season. It showed his strength and the promise he held.
2023–24 AHL assignment to Laval Rocket for defensive polish
After an injury in mid-November 2023, he was sent to the Laval Rocket in early December. The goal was to improve his timing, puck management, and exits. This move was a key part of his player development.
Pairing with Logan Mailloux and impact on Rocket surge
Working with Logan Mailloux, he simplified his passing and closed gaps sooner. Their partnership helped the Rocket climb the standings. Their teamwork was evident, with one player jumping in and the other sealing the defense.
Return to Montreal and continued evolution
He was recalled in late January 2024. He used his time in Laval to improve his game in Montreal. His touches were quicker, his box-outs firmer, and his discipline better.
He kept up with canadiens news while staying focused on his routine. He even kept the same barber and haircut pre-game.
| Season | Team | Games | Goals | Assists | PIM | Notable Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022–23 | Montreal Canadiens | 51 | 5 | 8 | 101 | Physical edge, early defensive refinement |
| 2023–24 (AHL) | Laval Rocket | 17 | 3 | 8 | 33 | Reads, gaps, pairing with Logan Mailloux |
| 2023–24 (NHL) | Montreal Canadiens | 44 | 3 | 7 | 66 | Translating AHL reps, detail under pressure |
Contract, Milestones, and 2024–25 Season Storylines
Arber Xhekaj started 2024–25 with a new contract and high expectations. His growth and impact on the team were key. The Montreal Canadiens looked to him to bring both strength and finesse to the blue line.
Qualifying offer and two‑year, $2.6M extension
On June 30, 2024, Montreal offered him a qualifying offer. They then signed him to a two-year, $2.6 million contract on July 30. This deal set clear goals: play smart, stay disciplined, and keep his unique edge.
100th NHL game and noted improvement narratives
He played his 100th NHL game on October 17, 2024. The team highlighted his progress and better playmaking. Over 70 games, he scored 1 goal, had 5 assists, and took 118 penalties.
Fine for unsportsmanlike conduct and managing the edge
A fight with Toronto’s Cédric Paré on September 29, 2024, led to a fine. It taught him to play with intensity but not recklessness. Coaches emphasized the importance of discipline, and he adjusted his game.
Late‑season scratches and playoff debut vs. Washington
He faced late-season benchings due to mistakes in the last five games. He made his playoff debut against Washington in Game 3 on April 25, 2025. His performance showed his value and why fans eagerly await his next move.
arber xhekaj in the Canadiens’ Blue Line Picture
Arber Xhekaj has a tough road ahead on the Canadiens blue line. His size and aggression are notable, but the team needs more than just strength. With careful puck handling, he can keep up, even when the pressure is high.
Depth chart dynamics: surplus of left‑shot defencemen
With many left‑shot defencemen, Xhekaj faces stiff competition. The team’s depth chart can change quickly, making his spot uncertain. The coach considers many factors, like team chemistry and penalty trends, when picking the lineup.
His role is also affected by special teams and matchups. Clean breakouts and fewer penalties help his case. The Montreal Canadian goalies also benefit from clear lanes.
Role debate: shutdown minutes vs. matchup usage
Some think he’s best at shutting down opponents. Others see him as a matchup specialist. The coach’s strategy often depends on the opponent’s style and the game’s pace.
His ability to set a strong gap and make quick passes is key. This balance helps the team survive long shifts and reduce opponents’ chances.
Staying in the lineup: physical identity and discipline balance
His physical play is valuable, but it must be controlled. Hits that are clean and box-outs that are clear are important. These actions help the goalies and reduce the need for quick scrambles.
Playing with discipline and avoiding unnecessary penalties is essential. This approach keeps the momentum with Montreal and helps the team succeed night after night.
Position Flexibility: Could Wing Be an Option in Montréal?
In Montréal, there’s talk of a player moving to wing. This change aims to keep the game intense and the player’s minutes up. It’s seen as a smart move, not a permanent change.
The idea is to let the player use their strength in the forecheck. This way, they can help more without overloading the defense.
Analyst chatter about a move to wing to maximize physicality
Brian Wilde suggested this on Tony Marinaro’s Sick Podcast. He said being a winger lets a player focus on getting pucks and making hits. It’s meant for short tests, not a permanent switch.
If the team likes it, they can try it again when the game calls for it.
Pros and cons: penalties from the blue line vs. forward spot
Penalties hurt more when a defenseman is off the ice. But from the wing, the risk is lower. This makes the wing experiment appealing.
But, there’s a risk of too many players vying for the spot. Everyone needs to know their role and be ready to adapt quickly.
Storyline: Skating alongside brother Florian with the Canadiens/Laval
There’s a personal angle to this story. Florian Xhekaj, drafted 101st in 2023, is already a hard-skating player. If he and his brother play together in Laval, it will be interesting to see how they work together.
Off the ice, Florian is known for his simple style. His hair and grooming routine are part of his image in Montréal. This adds to the story as the debate continues.
Impact Beyond the Stat Line: Physicality, Presence, and Culture
Arber Xhekaj changes games with his physical presence. In 2024–25, he had 180 hits and 118 penalty minutes. He makes the ice a battleground, making it hard for opponents to get close to the net.
His leadership is clear on the ice. He makes smart plays, clears the puck well, and controls the space. This helps the Montreal Canadiens goalies and makes the game safer for skilled players.
He represents the Canadiens’ values of effort, pride, and determination. His style is a mix of toughness and control. He sets the tone early, making opponents think twice about playing in the middle.
He walks a fine line between being physical and disciplined. He protects the crease without giving away momentum. This keeps the team focused and the game fair.
Media like TSN and the Montreal Gazette have noticed his impact. He wins the battle for ice space and sets a high standard. His presence boosts team spirit and keeps energy high when games are close.
Connections Around the Habs: Goalies, Coaching, and Montréal Media
Arber Xhekaj plays a key role in protecting the crease, guiding the bench, and being in the spotlight. His actions impact how goalies handle pressure, how the bench uses players, and how fans follow every detail.
Sam Montembeault’s emergence and the Montreal Canadiens goalies landscape
Sam Montembeault has raised the defensive level in the net. His calm play and quick clears are key. Xhekaj’s strong stick work keeps the slot area clean.
In this goalie group, it’s important to box out rebounds and cut off cycles. This lets the goalies control the game’s pace.
Montreal Canadiens coach perspective on usage and development
The coach has given Xhekaj structured minutes, mixing defensive starts with matchups that play to his strengths. When Xhekaj’s form drops, shorter shifts and simple passes help him stay in the game.
When he’s playing well, the team trusts him to end cycles and protect the net beside Montembeault.
NHL news Montreal Canadiens and Montreal Gazette coverage shaping the narrative
Media coverage influences how fans see his progress. NHL news has highlighted his improved reads and hit timing. The Montreal Gazette has noted how his steady play supports Montembeault, leading to fewer second chances.
canadiens news and canadiens montréal: fan engagement and expectations
Fans want Xhekaj to play with force but avoid extra penalties. They look for strong clears, smart body checks, and quick passes to let Montembeault see shots. The main goal is to keep the crease safe and the game manageable for the goalies.
Conclusion
Arber Xhekaj’s journey from Hamilton to the NHL is truly Canadian. He went from being undrafted to signing a contract extension. His first game to his 100th shows his dedication and growth.
His stats in the 2024–25 season show his impact. He played in 70 games, scored 1 goal, and had 5 assists. He also had 118 penalty minutes and 180 hits. His minus-13 rating suggests there’s room for improvement.
In Montreal, he’s a standout player with a unique style. He combines old-school toughness with modern skills. This makes him a trendsetter in the city.
Looking ahead, Xhekaj needs to improve his timing and precision. The Canadiens have too many left shots, so his versatility is key. He could become a key player, possibly even alongside his brother Florian.
The connection between Xhekaj and the Montreal market is strong. The Bell Centre loves his presence. His performances are often highlighted in NHL news.
He’s a symbol of the Canadiens’ ambition to play harder and smarter. With a growing team and passionate fans, he’s always worth watching. As the Canadiens evolve, Xhekaj’s journey will be a big part of their story.