Canadiens Recall Florian Xhekaj from Laval Rocket

Montreal Canadiens Recall Forward Florian Xhekaj from AHL Affiliate

MONTREAL The Montreal Canadiens recalled forward Florian Xhekaj from their American Hockey League affiliate, the Laval Rocket, on Friday, bolstering their lineup amid a rash of injuries and a recent slump. The 21-year-old winger, younger brother of Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj, could make his NHL debut Saturday night when Montreal hosts the Toronto Maple Leafs at Bell Centre.

Xhekaj, a 6-foot-4, 204-pound player from Hamilton, Ontario, brings a physical presence to the forward group. Selected by the Canadiens in the fourth round, 101st overall, of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, he has shown promise in the minors. This season with Laval, he has recorded two goals and two assists along with 44 penalty minutes in 16 games. Last year, during his rookie professional campaign, Xhekaj tallied 24 goals and 11 assists, accumulating 175 penalty minutes in 69 regular-season games. In the playoffs, he added one goal, two assists and 59 penalty minutes over 10 contests.

The move comes as the Canadiens grapple with several key absences. Forwards Alex Newhook, Kirby Dach and Patrik Laine remain sidelined by long-term injuries,...