Arber Xhekaj to the Calgary Flames: proposed trade involving the Montreal Canadiens gains traction
Montreal Hockey Fanatics has no direct affiliation to the Montreal Canadiens, NHL or NHLPA
Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
The Calgary Flames are eyeing Arber Xhekaj, and the Montreal Canadiens may have the perfect trade chip to address a significant need.According to a recent report from David Pagnotta, Calgary is in the middle of a rebuild and is looking to move players such as Morgan Frost and Zach Whitecloud.
The Flames’ interest in Xhekaj isn’t new.
They’ve made an offer for him in the past, and the idea is resurfacing at an interesting time.
Martin St. Louis doesn’t seem to trust him, and it’s becoming increasingly obvious.
A defenseman who plays five minutes a night or watches from the press box isn’t providing much value, especially in the playoffs.
Xhekaj may be worth more in a trade.
Zach Whitecloud is the name that could balance Montreal’s blue line
That’s where Whitecloud enters the picture.
The 29-year-old right-shot defenseman has two years remaining on his contract at just $2.75 million per season.
That’s a bargain for an elite defensive defenseman.
Adding Zach Whitecloud would make the Canadiens’ blue line much more stable, without sacrificing too much physicality.
A proposed trade involving Arber Xhekaj and Zach Whitecloud is exactly what’s discussed in this article from The Hockey News:
Would Montreal really be willing to part with a player as beloved by the fans as Xhekaj in exchange for a quieter, defense-first blueliner? Time will tell.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
POLL
11 HOURS AGO|707 ANSWERS
Arber Xhekaj to the Calgary Flames: proposed trade involving the Montreal Canadiens gains traction
Would you trade Xhekaj for Whitecloud?