Oct 1, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj (72) looks on against the Ottawa Senators during the first period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

We have an update regarding young Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj. We were eagerly awaiting today’s press conference from head coach Martin St-Louis because we were looking forward to getting answers about tonight’s lineup.

Who would be in uniform to face the Boston Bruins tonight?

After all, it’s another extremely important game in the NHL playoff race especially after the Rangers won last night.

Would Oliver Kapanen be thrown into action right away?

Would Arber Xhekaj finally return to the lineup?

We finally have our answer.

Martin St-Louis confirms his lineup to face the Boston Bruins

The head coach first mentioned that, for now, there isn’t really a plan for Oliver Kapanen, and he will not be in uniform tonight.

“Martin St. Louis wants to give Oliver Kapanen time to adjust after returning to Montreal with the Habs.

He says there’s no specific date for his return.”

– Stu Cowan

He also mentioned that there will be no changes to the lineup, so.. No Arber Xhekaj tonight!

This is indeed bad news for Joshua Roy and Arber Xhekaj, but it’s great news for Michael Pezzetta, who actually received some praise from Martin St-Louis in the last few minutes of the press conference.

“No changes to the Habs lineup tonight against the Bruins.

Arber Xhekaj and Joshua Roy will be scratched, with Samuel Montembeault in goal.”

– Stu Cowan

As for the Bruins, they currently sit at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with a dismal 69 points in 75 games, making this a very winnable matchup for the Habs

More details to follow.

​As of April 3, 2025, Montreal Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis has made a significant decision regarding defenseman Arber Xhekaj ahead of the crucial game against the Boston Bruins. Xhekaj, who was previously benched during the third period of a game against the San Jose Sharks due to strategic reasons, has been reinstated into the lineup for the upcoming match. St. Louis explained that the earlier benching was not a punitive measure but a tactical decision influenced by game dynamics. ​Yardbarker+1Log in or sign up to view+1

Xhekaj’s return is anticipated to bolster the Canadiens’ defensive strength as they face the formidable Bruins. The coaching staff expects Xhekaj to leverage his physicality and defensive skills to counter Boston’s offensive threats.​

This decision underscores St. Louis’s strategic approach to optimizing his roster for pivotal games, aiming to enhance the team’s performance during critical matchups.