In the hours following Tuesday’s game between the Montreal Canadiens and New York Rangers, all discussion, aside from the final score, focused on Jacob Trouba’s questionable goal on Justin Barron.
As expected, the NHL deemed the hit “clean” and no further discipline was imposed. This left an entire province screaming about the game and the league’s lack of respect for protecting players.
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Meanwhile, what gets lost in the shuffle is the fact that Mike Matheson opted to drop the gloves on Trouba, a role usually reserved for defenseman Arber Xhekaj.
However, the 23-year-old was a healthy blank for the second straight match and missed the 7-2 blow.
On Wednesday, Xhekaj had the chance to meet the media and he did not shy away from saying that such a goal was not necessary as the match was virtually over at that point, saying then that he “will definitely remember it.”
It’s going to be an exciting storyline as these two Original Six rivals meet again on November 30 at Madison Square Garden.
And for those who need a refresher that the Rangers aren’t opposed to defending their home ice, here’s a line battle with the New Jersey Devils.
Interestingly enough, this is the same Rangers team in a line battle that would produce the best record in the NHL and capture the Presidents’ Trophy.
Even though the Canadiens aren’t at the same talent level as New York, their next game on November 30 will be one of the most watched.
Ultimately, the tone for the evening falls into the hands of head coach Martin St-Louis, who must decide whether to dress Xhekaj that evening, knowing that his only mission will be to find and challenge Trouba.
But that’s why they call Xhekaj “The Sheriff,” because he’s the most fearless skater in the Canadiens lineup.
Related: Canadiens defenseman leaves game after questionable hit by Trouba
Related: Canadiens Prospect Demidov takes another four-point game
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