Florian Xhekaj Called Up to Montreal Canadiens, Set to Debut Alongside Brother Arber
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Florian Xhekaj, a forward drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in 2023, has been called up to the NHL team and is expected to make his debut on November 24, 2025, against the Toronto Maple Leafs. https://www.nhl.com/canadiens This call-up allows him to join his brother, Arber xhekaj, who has been a consistent member of the Canadiens for four seasons. The move comes as the Canadiens seek to break a five-game losing streak and contend with several key injuries.
Xhekaj’s Background and Development
Florian Xhekaj, 21, was selected by Montreal in the fourth round (101st overall) of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft. https://www.nhl.com/draft/2023/players/florian-xhekaj-89911 He has spent the 2025/2026 season with the Laval Rocket, the Canadiens’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, where he has recorded 2 goals and 2 assists in 16 games, along with 44 penalty minutes. https://www.theahl.com/stats/player/293198 Known for his physical play, Xhekaj has demonstrated a willingness to defend teammates, notably Slovak forward Juraj Slafkovský.
Family History and Roots
The Xhekaj brothers were born in Hamilton, Ontario, but their family has a compelling story. Their father,Jack Xhekaj,is a Kosovar Albanian immigrant who came to Canada in 1990 and worked as a welder. Their mother,Simon,is originally from Hradec Králové,Czech Republic. https://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/nhl/arber-florian-xhekaj-canadiens-brother-story-1.7026991 This makes them one of the few sibling duos with such diverse heritage playing in the NHL.
Canadiens’ injury Situation and Roster Moves
The canadiens are currently dealing with injuries to key forwards Alex Newhook, Kirby Dach, and Patrik Laine. Center Jake Evans also sustained an injury in a recent game against the Washington Capitals. https://www.espn.com/nhl/injuries To make room for Florian Xhekaj on the roster, forward Joshua Roy has been sent down to the AHL’s laval Rocket. The Canadiens hope Xhekaj’s addition will provide a spark and help end their losing streak.
Primary Topic: NHL Player Call-Up & Family Story
Primary Keyword: Florian Xhekaj
Secondary Keywords: Montreal Canadiens, Arber Xhekaj, NHL, AHL, Laval Rocket, Hockey, Czech Republic, Hradec Králové, Kosovar Albanian, NHL Injuries.
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