Trade rumours surrounding Arber Xhekaj and the Canadiens

A significant trade offer has emerged, the New Jersey Devils have announced their willingness to trade their 10th overall pick in the upcoming draft for immediate playoff help, creating a buzz among analysts and fans.

With the Devils' 10th overall pick on the table, speculation has quickly turned to Arber Xhekaj. This scenario echoes a previous trade by Kent Hughes, who exchanged Alexander Romanov for a 13th overall pick that ultimately brought Kirby Dach to Montreal. A similar trade could be on the horizon.

The proposed trade would see Montreal acquiring the Devils' 2024 first-round pick (10th overall) in exchange for Arber Xhekaj. The prospect of such a deal is intriguing for the Canadiens, but not without controversy. Many fans and analysts argue that Xhekaj's value to Montreal is too great to consider trading him.

Xhekaj's performance this season, with 3 goals and 7 assists in 44 games, has solidified his reputation as a promising young defenseman. His contributions to the Rocket, where he notched 11 points in 17 games, further highlight his potential. The Canadiens' need for toughness is evident, and Xhekaj fulfills that role admirably.

Given the high interest in Xhekaj, it's worth exploring other trade options. Some suggest that a package involving Jayden Struble and additional assets might attract the Devils' interest without sacrificing Xhekaj. The potential to secure the 10th overall pick, which could yield a promising player like Beckett Sennecke or Tij Iginla, makes this a compelling scenario.

Hughes' strategy in previous trades shows his ability to navigate complex deals creatively. His interest in acquiring another top-15 pick, particularly in the 9th to 15th range, aligns with the current trade talks. While the idea of having both the 5th and 10th overall picks is appealing, Hughes will need to be innovative to achieve this without losing Xhekaj.

The fanbase is divided on this potential trade. Many believe that retaining Xhekaj is crucial for the Canadiens' future, emphasizing his role in the team's toughness and defensive depth. Others are enticed by the prospect of securing a high draft pick and the opportunities it presents.

As trade discussions continue, the Canadiens' strategy will be closely watched. The decision to trade or keep Xhekaj will significantly impact the team's future, making this a pivotal moment for Montreal's management.

What are your thoughts on this potential trade? Do you think Hughes should pursue the 10th overall pick, or is retaining Xhekaj the better move for the Canadiens? Share your opinions and join the conversation.