The Montreal Canadiens’ extra depth on defense could result in a potential trade for a top-six center in the NHL. According to analyst Brian Wilde, the Canadiens might consider trading physical defender Arber Xhekaj for a first-round pick. Nextor Quixtan believes that pick could be Seattle Kraken’s forward Shane Wright.
Wright was picked fourth overall in the 2022 NHL draft after initial projections had him first. Wilde suggested that the Canadiens can move Xhekaj, but only if they receive someone with as much potential in a different area of the rink.
“A first-round draft pick would be the only thing they would take to lose him. They don’t need more second-rounders. I can’t see him being traded, I think the organization loves him,” Wilde said.
Wilde also added that even though the Canadiens might not have a guaranteed spot for Xhekaj on the blue line but a second-rounder may not be enough. His physical presence and as an enforcer has a lot of upside.
Why this deal makes sense?
Despite the high upside, Shane Wright hasn’t lived up to expectations. He was finally able to put together full-season numbers in 2024, 19 goals and 44 points.
The Canadiens’ defense is crowded at the moment. With Noah Dobson, Mike Matheson, Lane Hutson, Kaiden Guhle and Alexandre Carrier, Xhekaj may have to compete for the last blue line spot with Jayden Struble. Thus, trading someone like Xhekaj for a first-round chip might be a nice bargain. Meanwhile, the Kraken could instead use his physical presence.
On the other hand, Wright might need a change in scenery, and the Canadiens could offer him the competitiveness that could unlock his full potential.
