Florian Xhekaj was a major highlight for the Rocket this season. Arber’s younger sibling, who played his debut professional campaign, netted 24 goals and accumulated 35 points over 69 games… most notably, he distinguished himself through his aggressive style of play.
And once you recognize the big brother, it’s really not shocking at all, hehe.
Consequently, an increasing number of individuals view him as a key figure in the Canadiens’ future. While nobody expects him to become another Connor McDavid, his potential lies in being a solid supporting team member.
However, not everybody agrees with this positive outlook. For instance, Byron Bader mentions that according to his model, it’s “highly improbable” that he will attain the same level as Troy Brouwer or Jordan Martinook.
As a result, he believes that Xhekaj’s progress “appears unfavorable”.
Bader takes an additional step: it has become
very
It has been a long time since a player with Xhekaj’s characteristics made it to the NHL.
It has been 30 years since a player with that profile reached the NHL. – Byron Bader
Certainly, it’s highly likely that Xhekaj could defy those statistics and emerge as a solid supporting player in the NHL. This season, he demonstrated impressive skills while playing for Laval.
(continuing to do so in the ongoing playoffs
), and although he still needs some development, the club has something intriguing on its roster.
Assuming he’ll take the lead in the Canadiens’ fourth line for next season would be rather presumptuous.
But if he’s sufficiently matured, it might occur.
What is evident, however, is that his actions in Laval currently provide him with a strong opportunity to manipulate the statistics. While there is no certainty that he will succeed, this is certainly within reach for him.
kid
is leaving a mark in Montreal.
That’s the crucial part: if he manages to get his shot and seize it, he will create a possibility for himself to defy the odds.
Overtime
— What’s your opinion?
– Coming up.
— A loss for the Roses.
