MHN Daily: Xhekaj Shines, Trade Talk, Canadiens Top Line Woes

Montreal Canadiens

• The Canadiens lost yet another frustrating game in Florida, but the silver lining was the impressive play of Arber Xhekaj, who continues to enjoy a great rookie season.
• The Montreal Canadiens continue to struggle when it comes to finding a player that fits alongside Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield, other than Kirby Dach. But one thing is clear, Joel Armia and Josh Anderson are not the solutions.
• Despite earning seven points in his last 10 games, New York Rangers forward Alex Lafreniere was made a healthy scratch in Wednesday’s matchup against the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Canadiens may want to take the opportunity to inquire about Lafreniere’s trade cost.
• Forward Juraj Slafkovsky was the second most researched player in 2022 according to Elite Prospects, trailing only Connor Bedard in popularity.

National Hockey Now

• NYI: The New York Islanders have suffered several injuries this season, but head coach Lane Lambert does not think it’s a matter of opponents targeting his players.
• BOS: The Boston Bruins seem to be cooking dinner in the New Jersey Devils’ kitchen.
• PGH: The Pittsburgh Penguins may have to do without star defender Kris Letang for a while, but it could lead to a big opportunity for Ty Smith.
• PHI: Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Sam Ersson has shaken some of the nerves from his NHL debut, and should be in a better state of mind for his second start.
• WSH: The Washington Capitals received some great news on the injury front as T.J. Oshie ditched the non-contact jersey at practice.
• FLA: The Florida Panthers were well-served by Sasha Barkov‘s return to action in Thursday night’s matchup against the Canadiens, as the elite forward immediately made an impact by scoring a hat trick in the first period
• DET: The Detroit Red Wings’  big comeback victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins was history-making.
• VGK: The Vegas Golden Knights could be suitors for Flyers forward James Van Riemsdyk.
• SJS: San Jose Sharks defender Nikolai Kryzhov is approaching a return to play.