It’s a good news, bad news day for the Xhekaj family, as Montreal announces that Florian Xhekaj signs. Earlier today his brother, current Canadien, Arber, was shut down for the season following surgery on his left shoulder. This is Florian’s three-year entry-level contract (ELC) and sees him signed through the 2026-27 NHL season.
The Canadiens have agreed to terms on a three-year, entry-level contract (2024-25 to 2026-27) with forward Florian Xhekaj.
News release ↓ #GoHabsGo https://t.co/pIkr9PJfCu
— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) April 9, 2024
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Montreal Signs 2023 Fourth—Round Pick Florian Xhekaj
Florian Xhekaj signs his ELC after a decent season with the Hamilton Bulldogs of the OHL. In 63 games, the winger scored 34 goals and added 31 assists for 65 points. In addition, this was a huge step up from his 2022-23 campaign. Last year saw him register just 25 points in 68 games for the Bulldogs. The 2023 fourth-round pick of the Canadiens has grown leaps and bounds, and this contract rewards him accordingly. Similar to his brother, he has size at 6’4”, and we all know about the work ethic.
Where Will Florian Fit in Montreal
Florian Xhekaj is like his brother in another way too, in that the brothers mix in skill with their game. Florian is a big body, that doesn’t mind being a strong, net-front presence. Moreover, as evidenced by his 34 goals as a 19-year-old in junior, he knows how to finish. Maybe the brothers can find spots for themselves on the Canadiens second power play unit within a couple of years. Florian will likely need some time to develop. So, making Montreal next year isn’t super likely, and he’s probably going to play in Laval with the Rocket in 2024-25. In contrast, with his size and strength, if he does play well, he wouldn’t be uncomfortable at the NHL level for a trial run perhaps. In any sense, Montreal continues to build for the future, and this fits that build well. It’s also considered a low risk move, when you consider the knowledge and familiarity with the family’s known commitment to the game.
Main photo: GREG WOHLFORD/ERIE TIMES-NEWS / USA TODAY NETWORK
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