Florian Xhekaj breaks the silence on his brother Arber
Just a few hours after announcing that Arber Xhekaj's season was officially over, the Montreal Canadiens signed a three-season contract with his brother, Florian, from the Brantford Bulldogs.
Indeed, last year's fourth-round pick has signed an entry-level contract with the organization, which will take effect from the 2024-2025 season. However, the 6'4'', 190-pound left winger also received a professional tryout with the Laval Rocket, allowing him to join the CH's farm team for the final matches of the regular season and potentially the playoffs.
Participating in his first practice with Jean-François Houle's team yesterday morning, the Bleu-Blanc-Rouge prospect was used as the 13th forward. It wouldn't be surprising if he were left out of tonight's game against the Cleveland Monsters, but expect to see him in the lineup on Saturday as the Laval Rocket must win to make the playoffs.
«Expect to see Florian Xhekaj used on the wing for his debut in Laval. He is not likely to play tomorrow, but I expect him to see action sooner rather than later, especially since he's the only extra forward currently. A great audition for 2024-2025.» - Anthony Marcotte
Moreover, the 101st overall pick in the last draft faced his first media scrum yesterday. He expressed great happiness about signing a contract with the same organization as his brother and is eager to play with the Laval Rocket.
With 34 goals and 31 assists (65 points) in 63 games in the OHL this season, Florian Xhekaj has clearly demonstrated to the management that he is not just a tough player; he also possesses interesting offensive skills. His progress this year has been remarkable, jumping from 25 to 65 points within a year, which is very promising for the future!
«I don't know what role I'll have, but I'll take whatever they give me. I'm happy and excited to be here this season and it will be the same next year.» - Florian Xhekaj
The younger Xhekaj brother also admitted that his older brother, Arber, had written to give him some advice. Having played nearly a month with the Laval Rocket this season, number 72 also confided that the players and the coaching staff in place would help him immensely in his progression.
«Arber wrote to me that the players are great here. He told me to learn everything I could and to listen to the coaches.» - Florian Xhekaj
If Florian has a similar attitude to that of Wifi, which seems to be the case, Canadiens fans will likely embrace him very quickly. Certainly, we are eagerly looking forward to seeing him in action in the coming days!
| POLL |
12 AVRIL | 150 ANSWERS Florian Xhekaj breaks the silence on his brother Arber Do you think Florian Xhekaj will play NHL games next season? |
| Yes | 94 | 62.7 % |
| No | 56 | 37.3 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
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