### Montreal Canadiens' Florian Xhekaj Set for NHL Debut Alongside Brother Arber Against Rivals The Montreal Canadiens have made a significant roster move by recalling rookie forward Florian Xhekaj from the Laval Rocket of the AHL. This decision comes as the team seeks to inject some physicality into their lineup amid a challenging stretch, including a five-game losing streak. Florian, the younger brother of defenseman Arber Xhekaj, is expected to make his NHL debut against the Toronto Maple Leafs, a matchup that heightens the stakes given the historic rivalry between the two teams. The Canadiens aim to bolster their toughness on the ice, a quality they have been lacking in recent games, particularly after a disappointing performance against the Washington Capitals [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/habs_recall_florian_xhekaj/s1_17387_43105271][https://www.chroniclejournal.com/sports/national_sports/canadiens-florian-xhekaj-set-for-nhl-debut-vs-maple-leafs-jake-evans-avoids-injury/article_658b0d86-2cc1-5ff3-943e-0134c0b41bc0.html]. ### Key Aspects of Florian Xhekaj's NHL Debut 1. **Background and Recall**: - Florian Xhekaj, a 21-year-old winger, was recalled from the Laval Rocket where he had recorded 2 goals and 4 points in 16 games this season. His previous season saw him score 24 goals and accumulate 175 penalty minutes, showcasing his physical style of play [https://apnews.com/article/florian-xhekaj-montreal-canadiens-brother-arber-7d31526a2b7e6fc38325b2cb7af31ab9][https://www.espn.co.uk/nhl/story/_/id/47052081/montreal-canadiens-recall-florian-xhekaj-brother-arber-xhekaj-ahl-laval]. 2. **Strategic Importance**: - The Canadiens are looking to add "sandpaper" to their lineup, a term used to describe players who bring grit and toughness. This is particularly crucial as they face their biggest rivals, the Maple Leafs, and aim to change the dynamics of their recent performances [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/habs_call_up_florian_xhekaj_amid_injury_concerns/s1_17468_43103194]. 3. **Family Connection**: - Florian's debut is notable not only for his performance but also for the unique opportunity to play alongside his brother Arber, which adds a personal touch to the competitive atmosphere of the NHL [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/nhl/news/montreal-canadien-rookie-florian-xhekaj-to-make-his-nhl-debut-along-with-his-brother-against-toronto-maple-leafs/articleshow/125511236.cms]. ### Supporting Data and Performance Metrics - **Florian Xhekaj's AHL Performance**: - **Current Season**: 2 goals, 4 points, 44 penalty minutes in 16 games. - **Previous Season**: 24 goals, 11 assists, 175 penalty minutes in 69 games. - **Playoff Performance**: 1 goal, 2 assists, 59 penalty minutes in 10 games [https://www.chroniclejournal.com/sports/national_sports/montreal-canadiens-recall-florian-xhekaj-arbers-brother-from-ahl-laval/article_aff8bd5a-04a6-5f92-9b2c-f54236ae0ac9.html]. ### Conclusion: A New Chapter for the Xhekaj Brothers In summary, **Florian Xhekaj's NHL debut represents a pivotal moment for both him and the Montreal Canadiens**. The team is looking to revitalize its performance against the Toronto Maple Leafs by leveraging Florian's physical style of play, which could be a game-changer in their current struggles. The emotional aspect of playing alongside his brother adds an inspiring narrative to this matchup. 1. **Florian's Recall**: A strategic move to enhance team toughness. 2. **Performance Metrics**: His AHL stats indicate potential for impact. 3. **Family Dynamics**: The brotherly connection adds a unique element to the game. The Canadiens hope that this debut will not only mark the beginning of a successful NHL career for Florian but also help turn their season around [https://www.nhl.com/canadiens/news/florian-xhekaj-recalled-from-laval-rocket-nov-21-2025].