Yesterday evening in Toronto marked a sudden turning point for Arber Xhekaj.
What was supposed to be a routine preseason game quickly turned into a nightmare, with Jayden Struble literally “putting it in his little back pocket.”
The web, ruthless as usual, was quick to react, and the Canadian’s fans understood a harsh truth: Struble is far superior to Xhekaj, in every department… except boxing skills. ..
Arber Xhekaj, once seen as an essential figure in the Habs’ defensive brigade, is now relegated to the background.
Struble’s emergence captured all the attention, not only from fans, but also from head coach Martin St-Louis.
Struble, with his sparkling performance, sidelined Xhekaj tonight. The latter finds himself in a position he never imagined: stuck in a bad training camp.
He must now face a devastating reality: his immediate future in the NHL is financially sealed with his salary of $1.3 million guaranteed for the next two years.
This situation was certainly not what Xhekaj aspired to be. The “goon” defenseman had carved out a starting spot before camp even began with his contract, but his recent setbacks, combined with the rise of Struble, could compromise his place in the starting lineup for the opening match on October 9.
Praise is now flying in the direction of Struble, who, in addition to having earned the trust of Martin St-Louis, has won over fans with his mature play and consistency.
The irony in all this is that Xhekaj must tell himself that this is only the beginning of his troubles. With Lane Hutson guaranteed to play on the 2nd pairing with David Savard, Xhekaj’s chances of being in the starting lineup are becoming more and more questionable.
It’s a nightmare for him, a warning to all young players who might think their place in the NHL is assured once they get a taste of it. Professional hockey is unforgiving, and Xhekaj is currently experiencing it bitterly.
This descent into hell is a hard blow for the defender, who must now reassess his objectives and find the strength to get back up.
He must remember his years working at Costco, where he learned to fight for every opportunity. Although he is a multi-millionaire, all the money in the world is nothing compared to the aspiration of playing at the highest level, in the NHL.
Xhekaj’s path to redemption looks difficult, especially with talents like Struble and Hutson climbing the ranks.
But in this sport, perseverance is the key, and it will take all of Arber Xhekaj’s determination to overcome this troubled period and hope to regain his place.
For the moment, Struble seems well above in the CH defensive hierarchy. It’s crystal clear.
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