Arber Xhekaj Embracing Competition After Blueline Shakeup

Following Jayden Struble's trade to Nashville, Arber Xhekaj insists he still needs to earn his spot daily despite receiving increased playing time and penalty-kill usage from coach Martin St-Louis. Xhekaj has seen action in four games this season, playing 12 or more minutes in three of them. While fans view Struble's departure as a vote of confidence for Xhekaj's gritty style, the defenseman maintains a cautious approach as Montreal temporarily deploys seven blueliners.