Martin St-Louis appears to have made a surprising decision on Arber Xhekaj

It's finally the start of the Montreal Canadiens' training camp, and we are closely watching the decisions that Martin St-Louis and Kent Hughes will make.

Martin St-Louis regarding the lineup composition and the combinations deployed, and Kent Hughes concerning the players who will be kept or cut.

Earlier today, we spoke to you about an interesting first decision involving Patrik Laine, and now we've just received a clue about defenseman Arber Xhekaj.

Arber Xhekaj in pole position to play with David Savard on the top-4 defense

Even though I love Xhekaj, I have to admit this one surprises me a bit.

I expected to see a young player like Logan Mailloux or Lane Hutson start with David Savard, who is an incredible partner for a young defenseman, but it's the Sheriff who ultimately gets this spot alongside the very reliable veteran.

Given his progress last season, we must say it's well deserved. It's an interesting decision, and things are looking very good for Arber Xhekaj.

Considering the current top-4 mentioned above, it also means that Logan Mailloux, Justin Barron, Lane Hutson, and Jayden Struble are likely competing for the last two "chairs" on the Montreal Canadiens' defensive lineup.

It's going to be exciting! The competition will be fierce.

And you, what's your prediction for the Canadiens' top-6 defense for the first game of the regular season in October?

I can hardly see Lane Hutson and Logan Mailloux being sent down to the Laval Rocket, but at the same time, I also have a hard time imagining Kent Hughes placing Justin Barron on NHL waivers.

Stay tuned!

Jeff Gorton reveals the two players who could replace Patrik Laine on the second line

Bob Hartley Raises Intriguing Possibility of Converting Arber Xhekaj to Forward

The Montreal Canadiens welcome back 6-foot-4 rugged defenseman to the organization's camp

12 players have just been placed on NHL waivers, including two goaltenders

Jayden Struble defends Arber Xhekaj and does not share the same opinion as Martin St-Louis at all

The Montreal Canadiens Seem to Have Reached a Verdict on Logan Mailloux

Arber Xhekaj may have just lost his spot in the Canadiens lineup, according to Arpon Basu

Kent Hughes confirms that he tried to acquire Marc-André Fleury this summer

St-Louis reveals that a major goal has been achieved with Patrik Laine: "he was excited to come to the rink"

Senators Forward's Dirty Hit Sends Kirby Dach to the Locker Room