Canadiens' Arber Xhekaj Drawing Trade Interest from Calgary Flames

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj, 25, is reportedly generating interest from a Western Conference club, specifically the Calgary Flames, as the 2026 NHL trade deadline approaches. The Flames, in a rebuilding phase, see Xhekaj as a young talent with good upside who could potentially secure consistent playing time and even a second-pairing role. However, trading Xhekaj, a physical defenseman, carries risk for the Canadiens, who may prefer to retain him for potential playoff contention.