Arber Xhekaj's agent indicates defenseman wants to stay with Canadiens
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 5:26 PM
Last updated Jul 30, 2026
Arber Xhekaj remains a restricted free agent as contract talks with the Montreal Canadiens continue. His agent Brian Bartlett confirmed that Xhekaj desires to stay in Montreal, expressing confidence that an agreement can be reached ahead of training camp. Xhekaj provided pivotal contributions last season, recording 178 hits and 116 penalty minutes while helping the Canadiens reach the Eastern Conference Final. The Canadiens are aiming to build around a young core and could benefit from Xhekaj’s physical play on the blue line.
- •Xhekaj is a restricted free agent without a contract.
- •His agent emphasizes Xhekaj's wish to remain in Montreal.
- •Xhekaj led the Canadiens with 178 hits last season.
- •Montreal reached the Eastern Conference Final last season.
- •Contract negotiations are ongoing ahead of training camp.
- 5:26 PMYahoo Sports — Canadiens RFA D-man Arber Xhekaj wants to stay in Montreal, says agent
"Arber Xhekaj remains unsigned, but contract talks with the Canadiens continue.
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