The verdict is in for Arber Xhekaj: the Canadiens are on the verge of announcing a big decision in this matter

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MarcO
November 16, 2022 (8:52 PM)

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Today, we learned that defenseman Mike Matheson is very close to a return to action, and could possibly play as early as tomorrow.

This is great news, but it also means that a defenseman will have to be removed from the lineup, and we now have a major clue about the organization's intentions.

Kaiden Guhle, Jordan Harris, Joel Edmundson and David Savard all seem to be 100% guaranteed to keep their spot in the lineup.

That leaves Arber Xhekaj (a lefty) and Johnatan Kovacevic (a righty) on hold. One of them will have to give up his spot to Matheson, who is left-handed.

A big clue surfaces.

See what journalist Arpon Basu posted:

"Johnathan Kovacevic was told by the Canadiens on Monday to look for a home in Montreal. It's been a long road to the NHL, but he's made the most of his opportunity and found a team that appreciates what he brings." - Arpon Basu

And he added this:

"When you get claimed from waivers, you never know what to expect. It's been a little over a month now and the fact that they're saying that, it makes me feel like they see me here for a long time. It's a cool feeling. -Johnathan Kovacevic.

He took the long way, but he's here"

With all of this information, plus the statements this morning, we really realize that he (Kovacevic) is therefore obviously not the one who will be bailing out when Mike Matheson returns.

That leaves Arber Xhekaj. Will it be confirmed tomorrow? To be continued.

It would be a shame for the youngster, but it really looks like "Jacko" is about to leave the Habs' lineup. One thing is for sure, even if it happens, it will be temporary and he will come back even stronger.

Being left handed is clearly hurting him right now.