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2025 NHL UFA/Trade Thread

Xhekaj could benefit from a different (and way easier path)

Learn shot blocking and defensive positioning. Kill penalties. Basically become a David Savard clone with the added feature of being able to pound the shit out of people who dare to provoke him.

If he can do that he’ll have a long career
Chara was drafted & came up as a 3rd pairing bruiser… but spent loads of time “learning how to play D” w Sens - starting w PK and even net front on PP
 
Chara was drafted & came up as a 3rd pairing bruiser… but spent loads of time “learning how to play D” w Sens - starting w PK and even net front on PP

Chara was a unicorn in terms of his development.

The worst thing that happened to Xhekaj is that he was overhyped on a shit team and everyone thought he’d be Sheldon Souray 2.0.

I am convinced he now understands his next step. Start by being a reliable 3rd pair/PK dude
 
Which is neutering the way he plays. I agree but people shouldn't expect a lot of his and fights from him if he's going tu learn the game properly. That's what I meant by neutered.
 
Xhekaj could benefit from a different (and way easier path)

Learn shot blocking and defensive positioning. Kill penalties. Basically become a David Savard clone with the added feature of being able to pound the shit out of people who dare to provoke him.

If he can do that he’ll have a long career
If he commits himself , a decade earning career is a lock

Every team could use a tough SOB on the blueline , and he has great size and better wheels than most tough D

Stop trying to be a WWE wrestler and learn to play tough but smarter hockey
 
Andre Roy mentioned on BPM sports yesterday, he was told by a close friend of Claude Giroux …he’s hoping to play for Habs next year.

Turns 38 next Jan, 50pts this season w Sens. Still very good on the PK, PP and faceoffs (best in NHL 61.5%)

1-year deal as 3C w Heineken & Anderson - move Gallagher to 4th line, let Armia walk?
 
Andre Roy mentioned on BPM sports yesterday, he was told by a close friend of Claude Giroux …he’s hoping to play for Habs next year.

Turns 38 next Jan, 50pts this season w Sens. Still very good on the PK, PP and faceoffs (best in NHL 61.5%)

1-year deal as 3C w Heineken & Anderson - move Gallagher to 4th line, let Armia walk?
On a cheap deal to replace Dvo? Maybe. Still need that 2C though.
 
Good player, but seems futile. They will match. They are clearly on an upswing. I would focus on distressed or retooling teams to see if we can find someone suitable.
 
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