The Montreal Canadiens Add Another Xhekaj To the Team

The Montreal Canadiens have made their second pick on day 2 of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, which is taking place in Nashville, Tennessee.

The Habs decided to select Arber Xhekaj’s brother, Florian.

Florian played with the Hamilton Bulldogs last season, earning 13 goals and 12 assists in 68 games. He was ranked 131st by Central Scouting and 214th by Draft Prospects Hockey, the only two public rankings that had Florian on their list, but as we all know, adding a Xhekaj to the lineup usually has more value than just points.

Xhekaj, 19, is a 6’2″ 185 lbs forward, who isn’t as aggressive as his brother, but certainly has a high level of edge to his game. He’ll have to work hard to improve his overall game if he’s to make the NHL, but once again, we know that Xhekajs aren’t afraid of putting in the effort if there’s an opportunity to shine. He has speed to burn and there’s no doubt he had a fairly good rookie with the Bulldogs. Some scouts have compared him to Michael Pezzetta, due to his grit and speed.

Florian should return to the CHL this season to play his second OHL season in Hamilton.

The Montreal Canadiens moved two picks this draft, the 31st and 37th overall picks, in exchange for Alex Newhook, which means their first pick of day two was the 69th overall selection. They chose goaltender Jacob Fowler with the 69th pick. Newhook, 22, is joining the Canadiens from the Colorado Avalanche. He should serve as a middle-roster forward for the team, however, given his age and style of play, there could be significant potential left to tap.

It’s also worth noting David Reinbacher, who the Canadiens picked 5th overall, carries significant value despite not being the most exciting player in the top 5.

MUST READ: David Reinbacher’s Scouting Report From A Swiss League Expert

As it stands, the Canadiens have six picks remaining in the 2023 NHL Draft: 110th, 128th, 133rd, 144th, 165th, and 196th overall picks.