Canadiens Rumors: Pacific Team Targeting Arber Xhekaj

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj has been generating trade interest since the trade deadline. While Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes has made it clear that he does not want to move the hard-hitting defenseman, teams are continuing to call.

According to The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta, the Calgary Flames are one specific team that has been asking the Canadiens about Xhekaj's availability.

When noting that the Flames traded away Nikita Zadorov to the Vancouver Canucks this season, it makes sense that they have an interest in Xhekaj. Xhekaj would be an outstanding replacement for Zadorov, as he is also a very physical defenseman who is known for his toughness.

However, as noted above, the Canadiens are not planning to move Xhekaj. Pagnotta noted that Xhekaj is "part of Montreal's plans moving forward," but Hughes could change his mind if a team "is willing to really overpay."

Xhekaj, 23, appeared in 44 games this season with the Canadiens, posting three goals, 10 points, 81 penalty minutes, 125 hits, and 81 penalty minutes.