Photo credit: All Habs / NHL
The Montreal Canadiens appear to have made a key decision in the battle for the final forward spots, a choice likely to divide fans strongly.
Meanwhile, Oliver Kapanen would have already secured his spot in the starting lineup.
This decision changes the picture of the competition, and I feel that many fans may not be happy to see a certain Florian Xhekaj left out..
Oliver Kapanen Earns His Spot, Xhekaj and Beck in Danger with the Montreal Canadiens
Cloutier summed up the situation as follows:
“Logically, this is the last opportunity tonight to give an audition to F. Xhekaj and Beck; I believe Kapanen has already earned his spot.
On Saturday, we’re likely to send out a full lineup to prepare for the first game of the regular season.”
– Nicolas Cloutier
Kapanen, who has impressed with his consistency and commitment, seems to have convinced Martin St-Louis that he deserves a place in the offense.
For Beck and Xhekaj, it seems they will be sidelined at the start of the season.
Nothing is confirmed yet; it remains to be seen whether the Canadiens will choose to rely on a young player with promising potential or on a more reliable short-term option.
In my view, keeping Oliver Kapanen is a defensible choice, but the importance of Xhekaj’s development should not be overlooked, as he also deserves a real chance.
“The 2 brothers are part of being the glue of the team, and I think it’s super important”
– Maxim Lapierre
And in my opinion, I believe this choice will not be unanimous, as many fans want to see the young prospects from the organization take their place right away.
POLL
34 MINUTES AGOÂ Â Â |Â Â Â 23 ANSWERS
Canadiens May Have Picked Their Final Forward, a Choice Fans Might Question
Do you think the Montreal Canadiens should keep Oliver Kapanen over Beck or Xhekaj?