A Night of Unanswered Questions: Why Did Arber Xhekaj Finally Drop the Gloves with Nicolas Deslauriers?

It was a night filled with energy, tension, and unexpected moments at the Bell Centre in Montreal. On November 4, 2025, as the Montreal Canadiens faced off against the Philadelphia Flyers, the game delivered everything hockey fans crave—speed, skill, and a palpable sense of rivalry. Yet, amid the flurry of action, one incident stood out, leaving spectators and analysts alike buzzing with speculation and curiosity.

During the third period, young Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj made a decision that raised eyebrows across the hockey world. Known for his physical presence and fearless attitude, Xhekaj has never been one to shy away from confrontation. But on this particular night, he agreed to drop the gloves and take on Flyers left wing Nicolas Deslauriers, a seasoned enforcer with a reputation for toughness. The fight was intense, raw, and undeniably entertaining, but the real story lies beneath the surface.

Why did Xhekaj accept Deslauriers’ challenge? Just days earlier, he had notably declined an invitation to fight Ottawa Senators’ Kurtis MacDermid, a move that surprised many given Xhekaj’s usual willingness to stand his ground. What changed between then and now? What was it about Deslauriers that made this fight different? The answer, it seems, is layered with personal history, team dynamics, and a twist that few saw coming.

As the dust settled and the crowd roared, whispers began to circulate. Experts and fans alike started piecing together the puzzle, drawing connections that reached back to the preseason, when Deslauriers had engaged in a heated fight with Xhekaj’s younger brother, Florian. Was this more than just a routine scuffle? Was Arber Xhekaj motivated by something deeper—a sense of family pride, a need to send a message, or perhaps unfinished business from weeks before?

Theories abounded, and postgame comments only fueled the intrigue. Some suggested that Xhekaj’s decision was a calculated move, a way to energize his team and assert dominance at a crucial moment. Others believed it was a matter of honor, a response to Deslauriers’ previous actions against his brother. Whatever the true motive, one thing is clear: this was not just another fight. It was a statement, one that resonated throughout the arena and beyond.

Nicolas Deslauriers, the 34-year-old Quebec native, is no stranger to these moments. Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 218 pounds, he has built his career on grit and determination. Yet, with zero points in five games and 10 penalty minutes this season, his role is evolving—and his presence in the lineup was a last-minute decision that added another layer of intrigue to the night’s events.

For those watching, the fight was a highlight, a burst of adrenaline in an already thrilling game. But for those looking deeper, it was a moment packed with meaning, questions, and the kind of drama that only hockey can deliver. What really drove Arber Xhekaj to take on Nicolas Deslauriers? The answer, as you’ll discover, is more surprising than anyone expected.

Nov 4, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Philadelphia Flyers left wing Nicolas Deslauriers (44) fights against Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj (72) during the third period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Among all the things that happened last night during the Montreal Canadiens game, one thing to note is that young Arber Xhekaj dropped the gloves.

The Sheriff agreed to take on the tough Quebec native Nicolas Deslauriers, and many were wondering why Xhekaj accepted this fight when he had turned down an invitation from Kurtis MacDermid (of the Ottawa Senators).

That said, many experts and observers have just identified the real reason why Xhekaj agreed to fight Deslauriers last night, even though his team already had the momentum.

It should be recalled that Nicolas Deslauriers dropped the gloves against Arber Xhekaj’s younger brother during the preseason games

That clearly explains a lot.

“Arber Xhekaj dropped the gloves with Flyers Nicolas Deslauriers — could possibly have something to do with Deslauriers’ fight with Florian Xhekaj in the preseason…”

– Priyanta Emrith

Several people share that opinion, and based on postgame comments, it seems to be confirmed.

In the end, it was a good fight that certainly added to the already entertaining show for Canadiens fans watching live from the Bell Centre.

Nicolas Deslauriers, age 34 and originally from LaSalle, Quebec, is a 6-foot-1, 218-pound forward.

He has 0 points in 5 games this season, with 10 penalty minutes.

He was inserted into the lineup at the last minute.