The Bell Centre was buzzing with anticipation, the kind of electric energy that only Montreal hockey nights can deliver. But as the crowd roared and the lights blazed down on the ice, a single, unexpected change sent shockwaves through the rink—and across the entire Canadiens fanbase. The lineup card, usually a source of comfort and routine, held a secret that would ignite controversy, debate, and a flurry of speculation before the first puck even dropped.

In a move that few could have predicted, the Montreal Canadiens announced a major shakeup, one that defied the unwritten rules of sports momentum. Just days after a hard-fought win, head coach Martin St-Louis decided to break from his winning formula, making a choice that left reporters scrambling and fans questioning everything they thought they knew about the team’s direction. The name missing from the lineup wasn’t just any player—it was Arber Xhekaj, the hard-hitting defenseman who had become a symbol of grit and determination in Montreal.

Suddenly, the air was thick with rumors and theories. Was this a tactical decision, a message to the locker room, or something deeper? Why would St-Louis risk disrupting the team’s chemistry at such a crucial moment in the season? And what did this mean for the Canadiens’ chances as they barreled toward the holiday stretch, with internal competition heating up and every point more precious than the last?

As fans scrolled through social media and analysts dissected every possible angle, one thing was clear: this was no ordinary lineup change. The decision to scratch Xhekaj in favor of young Adam Engström was more than just a swap—it was a statement. But what was St-Louis really saying? And what had happened behind the scenes to prompt such a dramatic move?

Insiders wasted no time in digging for answers. RDS’s Patrick Friolet hinted at moments during Saturday’s clash with the Toronto Maple Leafs that may have triggered the coach’s displeasure. “Arber Xhekaj scratched. He made a few bad plays that displeased the coach against the Leafs,” Friolet reported, leaving fans hungry for more details. Meanwhile, Sportsnet’s Eric Engels added fuel to the fire, admitting surprise but acknowledging the fierce internal competition that now defines the Canadiens’ roster.

For those who have followed Xhekaj’s journey—from his rise through the ranks to his role as a fan favorite—this sudden benching feels like more than a simple correction. It’s a crossroads moment, one that could redefine his place in the team and set the tone for the rest of the season. And as speculation swirls, the only certainty is uncertainty itself.

What really happened on the ice that night? Was Xhekaj’s removal a calculated risk, a warning shot, or the beginning of a new chapter for the Canadiens? As the story unfolds, one thing is certain: the answers are more complex—and more compelling—than anyone expected.

So, what’s your take on this stunning development? Is Martin St-Louis sending the right message, or has he made a move that could haunt the Canadiens in the weeks to come? Dive into the full story below to uncover the truth behind the headlines, and decide for yourself where Montreal’s future lies.

Nov 1, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj (72) plays the puck during the second period of the game against the Ottawa Senators at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

We have new information regarding Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj.

A bit earlier today, the Canadiens caused a surprise by announcing that, in a very rare move, Martin St-Louis has changed his winning formula. He made a major change to his lineup even though the team won its most recent game, and it’s Arber Xhekaj who pays the price.

Arber Xhekaj has indeed been taken out of the lineup in favor of young Adam Engström.

But that’s not all!

Patrick Friolet reveals the possible reason why Martin St-Louis scratched Arber Xhekaj

According to his report, a few things happened during Saturday’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs that bothered Martin St-Louis.

“Arber Xhekaj scratched.

He made a few bad plays that displeased the coach against the Leafs.”

– Patrick Friolet, RDS

This unexpected removal from the lineup would therefore be due to a few bad plays by Xhekaj against the Leafs that displeased head coach Martin St-Louis.

For his part, Sportsnet journalist Eric Engels added this:

“I’m a little surprised, but not totally.

Just didn’t think any changes were coming to a winning lineup.

In any case, internal competition heating up, and the Canadiens will need to start regularly using reserves over this mad dash to the holidays.”

– Eric Engels

And you, what is your opinion on this situation?

Do you agree with Martin St-Louis’ decision to take out Arber Xhekaj in favor of young Adam Engström?