Montreal Canadiens Hold Firm on Arber Xhekaj Contract

Defenseman Arber Xhekaj, currently on a two‑year, $1.3 million AAV deal with the Montreal Canadiens, remains eligible for an offer sheet and has attracted trade interest from several clubs, including Philadelphia. The Canadiens have not pursued a deal, preferring to keep him on the roster while negotiations continue.

Xhekaj’s agent, Brian Bartlett, told TSN that the player loves Montreal and wants to stay, but emphasized that general manager Kent Hughes is “tough” and committed to the team’s long‑term vision. No agreement has been reached and the situation is described as unresolved with no imminent signing.