While the Canadiens celebrated an epic 4–3 comeback win over the Canucks, one name was noticeably absent from the celebration: Arber Xhekaj. The 24-year-old defenseman not only took two costly penalties at critical moments, but was also benched by head coach Martin St-Louis in a move that made it clear who’s in charge in Montreal.
The game had all the makings of a modern classic: a two-goal comeback, a red-hot Demidov with three points and a highlight-reel game-winner, and Nick Suzuki continuing to lead by example. Jakub Dobes was once again a wall in net. But amid all the brilliance, Xhekaj’s shadow loomed large.
First, a holding penalty in the opening period. Then, a blatant interference call behind the net in the second. St-Louis’s frustration was visible on the broadcast—an eye roll and a look of disbelief said it all. The response was swift: Xhekaj didn’t touch the ice in the third period, finishing the night with just 6:37 of ice time. Alarmingly low for a starting defenseman.
The message wasn’t lost on fans or analysts. Social media lit up with reactions: “Arber, man… you’re not helping yourself,” wrote HFTV. Others questioned whether the young blueliner is ready for the pressure of the NHL.
With Kaiden Guhle sidelined for at least two more weeks, the coaching staff may look to Mark Del Gaizo—or even Adam Engstrom—if the situation persists.
Was this a wake-up call or a warning shot? One thing is certain: St-Louis isn’t handing out minutes to anyone who doesn’t earn them. And in a league where every mistake has a price, the margin for error is razor-thin.
On a night of collective triumph, Xhekaj learned the hard way that in Montreal, talent alone isn’t enough. Discipline is part of the game—and sometimes, it’s played from the bench.