Montreal Canadiens' Xhekaj Fined for Unsportsmanlike Conduct During Preseason Matchup
Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj has found himself in hot water following an altercation with Toronto Maple Leafs forward Cedric Pare. The NHL has levied a fine of $3,385.42 against Xhekaj for unsportsmanlike conduct during a recent preseason game. This penalty stands as the maximum allowable fine under the league's regulations.
The incident in question took place in the first period of Toronto's 2-1 victory over Montreal. Xhekaj, the 23-year-old defenseman, received a minor penalty and a 10-minute misconduct for instigating the confrontation with Pare. The situation escalated as Xhekaj was subsequently handed a major penalty for fighting and received a game misconduct, forcing him out of the game early.
Standing at an imposing 6-foot-4 and weighing 240 pounds, Xhekaj has been a significant physical presence on the ice for the Canadiens. During his career, he has scored eight goals and contributed 15 assists over 95 games, accumulating a notable 182 penalty minutes. Last season alone, Xhekaj had 10 points, including three goals and seven assists, over the course of 44 games. He also led his team with 81 penalty minutes, was second on the Canadiens in plus-minus rating at plus-6, and ranked fourth in hits with 125.
The financial penalty imposed on Xhekaj will be directed to the NHL's Players' Emergency Assistance Fund. This is a standard procedure in the league's disciplinary actions, ensuring that fines contribute to a broader support system for players in need.
It's worth noting that Xhekaj's playing style, while aggressive, has also drawn praise for his defensive capabilities and physical game. His recent two-year contract extension worth $2.6 million, signed in July, is a testament to the Canadiens' belief in his value to the team.
The altercation with Pare in the preseason matchup highlights the fine line Xhekaj must walk as a physical defenseman in the NHL—a line that, in this instance, resulted in disciplinary action. As the Canadiens prepare for the regular season, maintaining discipline while leveraging Xhekaj's physicality will be key to his and the team's success.
While this fine might serve as a reminder of the consequences of unsportsmanlike behavior, Canadiens fans and the organization undoubtedly hope that Xhekaj can channel his intensity effectively in future games. With his substantial impact on the ice, he remains a crucial part of the team's defensive lineup.