Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
The playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes made one lingering weakness of the Montreal Canadiens crystal clear.
We’re talking about the lack of physicality, something many hope Florian Xhekaj can help address.
Kent Hughes is still looking to add a quality center or winger.
But a physical reinforcement for the bottom six would be just as valuable come playoff time.
With no major moves made since the start of the summer, attention has shifted to internal options.
And Florian Xhekaj checks several of the boxes the Canadiens are looking for.
He plays with contagious energy. He embraces the physical side of the game and never hesitates to stand up for his teammates.
Fans are also dreaming of finally seeing the Xhekaj brothers together in Montreal.
That said, they’ll have to wait a little longer.
Former Canadiens scout Grant McCagg poured cold water on those hopes, saying he doesn’t believe Florian Xhekaj is ready for the NHL.
The Canadiens Have Every Reason to Be Patient With Florian Xhekaj
Florian has played just five NHL games, which is a very small sample size to draw such definitive conclusions from.
According to McCagg, two areas are still holding him back.
His skating isn’t where it needs to be, and his aggressive style sometimes takes him out of position as he looks to finish every hit.
That’s exactly why patience is the best approach, according to McCagg.
Rushing him to the NHL could slow his development rather than accelerate it.
The Laval Rocket remains the ideal place for him. He’ll play in every situation there, away from the pressure of the big club.
His potential is not in question.
And the Canadiens’ need for more physicality isn’t going away anytime soon.
Now it’s up to Florian to prove to the organization that he’s the answer.
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A former Canadiens scout pours cold water on the Florian Xhekaj hype
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