Canadiens Face Defensive Lineup Decision with Guhle‘s Return
Montreal, QC – The Montreal Canadiens are poised to welcome defenseman Kaiden Guhle back into the lineup soon, creating an impending roster decision as Martin St-Louis will need to remove a player from the team’s defensive corps. With Lane Hutson, Noah Dobson, Mike Matheson, and Alexandre Carrier appearing firmly established in their roles, the choice will come down to Jayden struble or arber Xhekaj.
the situation presents a challenge for St-Louis, as both Struble and Xhekaj offer valuable, though similar, contributions to the team. Struble was previously a healthy scratch when the lineup was at full strength earlier in the season, but recent performances have complex the decision.
According to analyst Maxim Lapierre, speaking on the show JiC on monday, Xhekaj has played well recently, bringing a unique presence to the team, though he suggested Xhekaj could benefit from increased physicality. ”Xhekaj played very well in the last match. He has his role and the presence he brings. I would like to see him hit a little more though,” Lapierre stated.
Lapierre also noted Struble’s growth, highlighting his disciplined structure and increasing willingness to engage physically. “Struble, same deal. He’s disciplined in structure and he’s physical in his own way. I think his last two fights mixed things up a bit. We say to ourselves that he has taken a liking to it and that he seems to like it,” Lapierre explained, adding that Struble is beginning to “challenge” Xhekaj’s style of play.
Despite the competition,Lapierre strongly believes Xhekaj remains a crucial asset for the Canadiens and should not be traded. ”You can’t trade it. We need a player like Xhekaj. The first thing to do if you exchange it is to go get another one [comme lui]. You have no choice. The teams, in the playoffs, they will wont to strike. […] We are already starting to shake things up and it is not always within the limits,” he said.
