MONTREAL – Habs fans are well aware of Arber Xhekaj’s aura on the ice.
But, what is he like off the ice?
To learn more about the defenseman, the Canadiens content team spoke with his girlfriend, Stephanie Kielb, who told us more about his favorite hobbies, his game day outfits , as well as the friendship he shares with Kaiden Guhle and Juraj Slafkovský.
Please note that answers have been edited for clarity and brevity.
How did you meet?
We come from the same town. We’ve been friends for about [deuxième année du secondaire]. I actually heard about him before that because I was taking dance classes with his little sister at the time. But, we were in the same group of friends in high school, and we immediately became best friends.
What is its best quality?
He is very caring and would help anyone without flinching. Also, his humor. Those who know him know that he is a very sarcastic guy. He is always telling jokes, laughing and in a good mood. He knows how to make the best of any situation.
What was it like seeing Arber go from unknown player to crowd favorite almost instantly when he arrived in Montreal a few years ago?
It’s been fantastic. If people doubt him, he will prove them wrong. It’s great that this happened. He’s a really humble guy, too. He knows where he comes from, and he knows he can’t take things for granted. It’s been an amazing adventure, and it’s been great to be by his side throughout it.
