As the Montreal Canadiens prepare to open their playoff campaign against the Washington Capitals, all eyes are on the team’s blue line—and, more specifically, on the status of Arber Xhekaj. The hard-hitting defenseman has become a fan favorite in Montreal, known for his physical presence and willingness to stand up for his teammates.

With the Capitals’ Tom Wilson looming as a potential game-changer, many expected Xhekaj’s name to be penciled into the lineup for Game 1. Yet, as the team wrapped up its final practice before heading to Washington, it appears that head coach Martin St-Louis may have other plans.

Xhekaj’s role during drills has sparked debate and disappointment among fans and analysts alike, fueling speculation about the Canadiens’ strategy and whether they’ll miss the edge he brings in high-stakes playoff hockey. As anticipation builds and the stakes rise, the decision surrounding Xhekaj’s spot in the lineup is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about storylines heading into the series opener.

Photo credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

Many wanted to see Arber Xhekaj in the Montreal Canadiens lineup in Washington, especially knowing that a certain Tom Wilson plays for the Capitals.

However, you might want to lower your expectations on that front.

During the team’s most recent practice, Martin St-Louis decided to place Xhekaj in a rotation among defensemen, which seems to confirm that the Sheriff will be in the press box to start the playoffs.

Barring a major surprise, Arber Xhekaj will not be in uniform tomorrow for Game 1 against the Washington Capitals.

Arber Xhekaj Practicing as an Extra

It’s really disappointing, but unfortunately not all that surprising, especially considering Xhekaj was scratched near the end of the season.

“Habs lines at practice:

Caufield-Suzuki-Slafkovsky
Anderson-Dvorak-Kapanen
(*Gallagher left after power play practice)
Laine-Newhook-Demidov
Heineman-Evans-Armia

Matheson-Carrier
Guhle-Hutson
Struble-Savard

*Xhekaj rotating”

– Patrick Friolet, RDS

As you can see in the comments section, this is definitely not a popular decision with everyone.

Arber Xhekaj, 24 years old, is a 6-foot-4, 240-pound defenseman with 6 points in 70 games this season, along with 118 penalty minutes.

We’ll keep monitoring this for you in the coming hours, especially during the morning skate.

The Canadiens will then fly out to Washington (D.C.) later in the day.

If it were your decision, would Arber Xhekaj be in the lineup for Game 1 in Washington?

He could definitely bring an interesting edge in a playoff setting-especially with Tom Wilson being such a key factor.