Habs Daily: Xhekaj Podcast Appearance, Laine’s Powerplay Value

Here are the Montreal Canadiens news items, highlights, and stories you may have missed on Tuesday.

Montreal Canadiens News

Despite the narrative surrounding Patrik Laine in recent years, he can still produce a respectable number of points. His presence in the lineup gives head coach Martin St-Louis more options, especially on the powerplay, an area of concern for the team since they decided not to offer Andre Markov a contract extension. [Patrik Laine Trade Could Improve Specific Area For The Canadiens]

Check out this great montage from Gregory Hamel. Given what Laine has gone through in his young career, it’s rather easy to cheer for him to bounce back in a big way with the Habs.

I want to fly, can you take me far away?
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Je ne pensais pas publier un autre montage avant le début de la saison, mais Kent Hughes en a décidé autrement. Bienvenue à la maison, Patrik Laine! #GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/zBqihC5GZ6

— Grégory (@GregoryHamel_) August 20, 2024

Former Hab Nate Thompson seem to be a fan of the move that brought Laine to the Canadiens.

I’d definitely say over this year. This trade is the most intriguing to me. Combination of young talent and Marty St. Louis as the coach. 3rd times a charm maybe 🤔 https://t.co/HQti627uZm

— Nate Thompson (@NateThompson44) August 20, 2024

Canadiens Defenceman Arber Xhekaj was a guest on the Spittin’ Chiclets Podcast, discussing his entry-level contract with the Habs, head coach Martin St-Louis, his fights, and a various other topics.

National Hockey Now Network

The Washington Capitals are less than two months away from their first game of the 2024-25 season. There is a lot for fans to look forward to, and many storylines that will play out during the entire campaign. While some topics for discussion get a lot of attention like Alex Ovechkin trying to break Wayne Gretzky’s goals record, there are some other bold predictions that have the possibility to occur during this upcoming campaign. [Washington Capitals]

We’re now in the latter half of August, and the 2024-25 NHL season is inching closer and closer. There’s always work being done behind the scenes, however, it’s no secret things slow down in the summer. But, now that September is upon us, the work is beginning to ramp up again. [New Jersey Devils]

The Philadelphia Flyers have announced they have placed former Nashville Predators forward Ryan Johansen on unconditional waivers for purposes of contract termination due to a “material breach” of contract. The Collective Bargaining Agreement requires a player to be placed on unconditional waivers prior to contract termination. [Philadelphia Flyers]