Montreal Canadiens Defensive Lineup Changes
As defenseman Kaiden Guhle gears up for his comeback, the Montreal Canadiens made the decision to send Adam Engstrom back to the Laval Rocket. This move not only affects Engstrom but also has significant implications for the team’s defensive lineup.
Competition for Lineup Spots
With Guhle poised to return, two players—Arber Xhekaj and Jayden Struble—will find themselves contending once again for a spot in the lineup. Since Guhle sustained his injury, both Xhekaj and Struble have seen considerable ice time, but Engstrom’s temporary tenure on the roster meant one of them had to take a step back during his run of nine games in the NHL.
Xhekaj’s Determination and Performance
Despite the pressure, Xhekaj seems determined not to be sidelined when Guhle is back. This season, he has shown moments of hesitation, perhaps due to concerns about incurring penalties. However, his recent performances indicate a resurgence in his confidence and effectiveness, as he has been contributing significantly in terms of physicality without crossing the line into penalty trouble.
Defensive Tenacity
In his last two games, Xhekaj has delivered a formidable six hits each game, demonstrating his defensive tenacity. An incident late in the game against the Florida Panthers resulted in a misconduct penalty, but impacts like these are expected when emotions run high—particularly with tensions on the ice. In the subsequent match against the Calgary Flames, a minor high-sticking penalty granted to him was deemed accidental, showcasing his improved control.
Physical Presence and Competitive Edge
What’s more notable is Xhekaj’s performance in fights; he recently outclassed Scott Sabourin with a decisive knockout and managed to stand his ground against the formidable Nikita Zadorov. His ability to use his physical presence effectively not only provides the Canadiens with a competitive edge but also serves as a deterrent to opposing players.
Looking Ahead
The anticipation grows that Guhle may return to the action as soon as Saturday against the Detroit Red Wings, and Xhekaj’s upward trajectory certainly positions him as a deserving candidate to maintain his place in the roster.
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