Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
Josh Anderson’s illness could open an unexpected opportunity for Arber Xhekaj in Montreal’s lineup.
With Alexandre Texier already staying in Montreal to recover from an injury, the team suddenly finds itself short on healthy forwards.
Journalist Marco D’Amico quickly analyzed the options available to head coach Martin St-Louis for Sunday’s game.
If Josh Anderson is unable to suit up, management could very well dress Arber Xhekaj.
“They can dress Xhekaj and go 11-7.”
– Marco D’Amico
The Montreal organization could opt for a lineup of eleven forwards and seven defensemen to face the Carolina Hurricanes.
However, another even more intriguing option was raised by TVA Sports analysts after last night’s game.
According to the panelists, Arber Xhekaj could actually be used as a forward on the team’s fourth line. Finally!
Does Arber Xhekaj have the ideal profile to play forward on a fourth line?
He skates very well and brings an extremely physical style that fits perfectly with a support role.
Playing as a power forward on a fourth line would allow him to deliver heavy hits without the usual defensive responsibilities.
For the defenseman, it would also represent a golden opportunity to re-enter the lineup, as he has been pushed aside by Jayden Struble’s recent strong play.
Of course, if Martin St-Louis refuses to use Arber Xhekaj in this creative way, general manager Kent Hughes has another option.
Since the team would have fewer than twelve healthy forwards, the club is allowed to make an emergency recall.
Bringing a player up from Laval on short notice would require quick logistics in the middle of this road trip.
That’s why the idea of using Arber Xhekaj as a forward for one night—or deploying him as a seventh defenseman—remains the most intriguing scenario.
Another possibility to consider is Patrik Laine, who could also be inserted into the lineup as an offensive reinforcement.
Martin St-Louis will reveal his final game plan during warmups against Carolina.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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Arber Xhekaj could get an unexpected opportunity vs Hurricanes amid Canadiens lineup shortage
Would you like to see Arber Xhekaj play a game as a forward with the Montreal Canadiens?