Florian Xhekaj is under the microscope: a big decision from Martin St-Louis
The least we can say is that young Florian Xhekaj knows how to make himself heard, and he intends to continue impressing Martin St-Louis.
Indeed, the young man had a few games in Laval last season, but nothing more in professional hockey. However, he will be facing players like Luke Tuch, who performed very well in last night's victory.
An audition for Florian Xhekaj
Florian Xhekaj will play his first game with the Canadiens tonight, and he will be used on the fourth line. While he can bring energy, he is also capable of scoring goals and making nice plays.
He will be paired with Michael Pezzetta and Xavier Simoneau. It promises to be a pretty exhausting trio. Even though Simoneau is small in stature, he plays very big and is tireless.
For Florian, this will be a first test, and he could very well play with Xavier in Laval, which would be good for him. Here is the complete lineup:
Caufield-Suzuki-Slafkovsky
Gallagher-Evans-Armia
Farrell-Beck-Mesar
Pezzetta-Xhekaj-Simoneau
Defensemen:
Matheson-Reinbacher
Struble-Mailloux
Trudeau-Hayes
Goalies:
Montembeault
Hughes
Notably, Martin St-Louis seems to have created two lines for Montreal and two others for Laval. Yes, Michael Pezzetta is far from guaranteed to play in Montreal. If a young player gives Kent Hughes no choice, he will get his chance, and Michael Pezzetta will go on waivers.
This is the beauty of having a solid prospect pool like the Canadiens do. There is starting to be a lot of depth, and the young players are pushing so hard that some veterans may have to go.
Will Florian Xhekaj be the one to take Michael Pezzetta's spot? I would be surprised for this year, but don't lose sight of him too quickly!
| POLL | ||
Do you think Florian Xhekaj has a chance to make the Canadiens' lineup this year, despite the strong performances of Oliver Kapanen and Luke Tuch, among others? | ||
| Yes | 40 | 21.6 % |
| No | 145 | 78.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
