There are moments in sports that transcend the ordinary, moments that capture not just the attention of fans, but the very essence of what it means to chase a dream on the grandest stage. Saturday night in Montreal was one of those moments—a night charged with emotion, anticipation, and the electric energy that only a debut can bring. For the Xhekaj family, this was more than just another game; it was a milestone, a celebration, and perhaps, a test of tradition and resilience. As the spotlight fell on Florian Xhekaj, the young Montreal Canadiens forward, the Bell Centre buzzed with excitement, not only for the matchup against the storied Toronto Maple Leafs, but for the arrival of a new name on the roster—a name already familiar, yet full of promise.

Florian’s journey to this point has been anything but ordinary. Following in the footsteps of his older brother, Arber Xhekaj, Florian has carved out his own path, marked by determination, grit, and an undeniable passion for the game. Yet, as he prepared to step onto the ice for his very first NHL game, few could have predicted how the night would unfold. From the rookie lap to the final buzzer, every moment seemed to be tinged with both celebration and controversy, tradition and challenge. The anticipation was palpable, the stakes high, and the emotions running deep—not just for Florian, but for his family, teammates, and the legion of fans who had watched his rise.

The rookie lap, a cherished tradition in the NHL, is often a rite of passage for young players—a chance to soak in the atmosphere, to feel the roar of the crowd, and to mark the beginning of a new chapter. For Florian, this moment was made even more special by the soundtrack of Black Eyed Peas’ “Pump It,” echoing through the arena as he skated out, helmetless, to the cheers of the crowd. It was a moment of pure joy, a celebration of youth and ambition, and a nod to the traditions that make hockey so beloved. But as the cheers faded and the game began, the night took an unexpected turn—one that would leave fans and commentators alike buzzing with questions and opinions.

What happened next is a story that goes beyond the box score, beyond the highlights, and into the heart of what it means to be a rookie in the NHL. From the unexpected fine handed down by league officials, to the physical and emotional battles on the ice, Florian’s debut was anything but typical. It was a night of firsts—a first assist, a first fight, and a first brush with the complex and sometimes bewildering rules that govern the sport. For some, it was a reminder of the challenges faced by young players; for others, it was a celebration of resilience and character in the face of adversity.

As the dust settles and the headlines swirl, one thing is clear: Florian Xhekaj’s first NHL game was unforgettable, not just for what happened on the ice, but for the stories, traditions, and controversies that surrounded it. But what really happened during those crucial moments? What was the reaction inside the locker room, and how did Florian and his family respond to the unexpected sanction? To find out, you’ll have to read on—because this is one debut that demands to be experienced in full.

Photo of Florian Xhekaj

Photo credit: NHL

The young Montreal Canadiens forward, Florian Xhekaj, played his very first NHL game this Saturday night.

It was certainly a special night for Florian, for his brother Arber, and, of course, for the entire Xhekaj family.

Arber Xhekaj’s little brother even got his own nice little moment of glory before the game against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

“Florian Xhekaj comes out for his rookie lap to the sound of the Black Eyed Peas’ Pump It and receives the expected welcome”

– Karine Hains, The Hockey News

We love it!

However, since Florian obviously did his traditional rookie lap without a helmet, it immediately comes with a ridiculous fine from Gary Bettman and the NHL.

Already a sanction from the NHL for young Florian Xhekaj

We mention it every time, to highlight how ridiculous it is, but Gary Bettman and the NHL have a pretty special way of welcoming a new player to the league, and it comes with a fine!

It is, of course, strictly forbidden by the National Hockey League for a rookie to step onto the ice without a helmet.

That said, we generally imagine that the organizations pay these fines directly, but it remains quite a ridiculous rule… especially for these little traditions!

Speaking of Florian Xhekaj, he had an incredible first game!

“Florian Xhekaj has an assist and a fight in his 1st career NHL game”

– HabsOnReddit

What a game for the young Xhekaj!