Florian Xhekaj doesn’t want to go back to Brantford

The Habs drafted him in the fourth round (2023) because he can do it all on the ice, but Arber’s little brother exceeded expectations offensively last season.

The forward is taking part in the Canadiens’ development camp in Brossard this week, and spoke to reporters today after the various practices.

Above all, he said he feels ready to move on to the next level… And that he’s (really) not interested in going back to junior:

I don’t want to go back to Brantford. I see myself in Montreal or Laval.

But I have the confidence to play with the Canadiens next season. – Florian Xhekaj

Confident, the kid…

Director of player development Rob Ramage and the hopefuls address the media live from the development camp.

Director of player development Rob Ramage and prospects address the media live from development camp#GoHabsGo https://t.co/NFVbXSqv1C

– Montreal Canadiens (@CanadiensMTL) July 4, 2024

What I’m saying here is that he already has a little (just a little) experience at the professional level.

But taking a step back, it’s logical to believe that Xhekaj could make the jump to the pros as early as next season.

After all, he’ll never become an impact player offensively in the National League… And it might be better for him to play against men next year because of his style of play.

He proved himself in junior and he won’t learn to be more physical in the OHL.

And he needs to acclimatize to the toughness of the professional level, because that’s going to be his role over the next few years in Montreal if he’s able to carve out a position with the Habs.

Overtime

– Wow!

It doesn’t get more wholesome than this. pic.twitter.com/K8dQRzuovt

– BarDown (@BarDown) July 4, 2024

– Backup in Detroit.

UPDATE: The #RedWings today signed defenseman Tory Dello to a one-year, two way contract. pic.twitter.com/kyogs3rMDE

– Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) July 4, 2024