He's Such a Good Story..

[@HockeyJunkie]

Are you interested in rockin' a brand new Blackeye from Xhekaj T shirt or Hoodie? If so, check out my merch store and grab one of these and boys.. www.streamlabs.com/hockeyjunkie/merch

[@RB-wg3qm]

I think we should nickname him Special FX.

[@carycwilliams]

Predicted the same thing as you with Arber, you could just see the comfort level in his game. His discipline has been off the charts since he got sat out after he got back from Laval. I think you win playoff series and Stanley Cups with players like these two. Florian will play in the NHL, there is no doubt about it, can't miss. He needs to fill out and gain strength. He probably won't play on the team until he's 22-23yrs, but he will be there in 2 to 3 years. He's still eligible for one more overage in the O, but will probably play his way into the Laval lineup. Montreal will be finding their feet in the playoffs at that time, and this team, if they build it right, They could be the strongest lines 1-4 and d-pairs 1-3. They will have two top goaltenders, take your pick, Volohkin, Fowler, Dobes or Primeau. Montambault will play himself out of the number 1 job by Christmas next year. They will make the playoffs next year. The players they need to shed; Gallagher and Anderson. They won't have the most talented team, but they are going to be a wrecking ball of a team that will be relentless with all 4 lines, that lineup is going to be so stacked in 2-3 years, barring injury, their window will open, and will be open for a good 5 year run.

[@carycwilliams]

@@RB-wg3qm His brother should be called the X-Factor.

[@carycwilliams]

KZbin seems to be deleting a lot of my comments recently. I left one that had to do with him playing in the NHL. Yes, he will!! No doubt about it. He's still growing and gaining strength. You will playoff series and Stanley Cups with players like him and his brother. He could go back to the O, but he will play himself into a spot in Laval. He won't play for Montreal until his 22 year late, or 23 year. Montreal's line up, 1-4, barring injuries, will be one of the most relentless and nastiest lineups to play against. To go with the top 7 D-men they will have at that time, and their choice between Volohkin, Fowler, Dobes and Primeau, they are going to be set and their window will be open for a solid 5+ years. Montambault will play himself out of the number 1 position by Christmas. This is going to be a really fun next two years. There will be a lot of pieces moving around. Gallagher might be gone to a team like Arizona at the draft so they can get to the cap floor, and Anderson will probably have a new address by trade deadline, but this team is well on their way. There is no doubt about it and there will be a trade at the draft that will surprise a lot of people.

[@JudyPitcher]

​@@carycwilliamsSometimes the talking heads refer to him as such.

[@kenmacleod7225]

I watch Hockey Junkie every day now. The consistent quality combined with the humour makes for fun viewing. Thanks.

[@paramount4188]

Laval next year for sure. If he ends up on a bottom 6 role in MTL in a few years that would be a huge win for a 4th round pick. Good luck to him.

[@41italia]

as long as he's 20 years old he can play in the AHL

[@viper29ca]

@@41italiaHuh? Only have to be 18 by Sept 15 to play in the AHL.

[@41italia]

@@viper29ca no if you are playing in Canadian juniors you need to be 20.

[@mkilger]

He is too young yet but for him to turn one season into another great season because he was drafted by the Habs says a lot about his character. He didn't let it go to his head, he made himself better and if he keeps it up he will be better again next year. WTG to the xhekaj family!! they bread a good pair of quality hockey players and I hope they both are the future of the HABS!! GO Habs GO

[@kenmacleod7225]

The Habsy were smart to take a small gamble that could pay off big. The rest of the league's GMs should have been aware of what happens when a Xhekaj is given an opportunity to prove himself.

[@misterwire1331]

The Xhekajs know how to set the fucking tone. He's got grit, he can finish a play and no wonder they love costco so much, they need to get fed. Both on and off the ice. He's gonna be in the NHL one day.

[@RB-wg3qm]

Easy Shoresy.

[@mike-jl6si]

Wouldn't it be beautiful to see Pezz and younger Xhekaj in the same line

[@QWERTDUDE12]

Future Line brawls incoming

[@etwelben]

That would be awesome! With big bro joining the frey,

[@MorbidMorgan]

This channel is the reason I have a second team. I’m a hockey fan in the south and follow Florida but HJ helps me feel like I can be a Habs fan too

[@starledge]

I followed the deputy this year. With the numbers he put up this year, and with his size and physical game, suppose he wasn't drafted yet. Would he go 4th round this year? Or would he draft higher? Would he be considered at best a 4th line role player? He is an impact player that scores from everywhere on the ice. And he is a centre too, a six foot four centre that can skate, hit and score. Teams are always looking for this down the middle, everywhere in the line up. 4th line only? Really? He has the attributes, the numbers and the potential to do better than we might think, just like his brother did. Has anyone noticed how the Habs are easily pushed around? The Vancouver game the other night? They need a player like the deputy, a player the coach can fit in the line up depending on the opponent, but I think he can be more than a utility player.

[@MrWillcapone]

So we have the Sheriff. But the thing that really tickle my funny bone is HIS MOM is actually calling this little monster The Deputy (on Twitter). Like c'mon 😂😂😂 That's just perfect !!!

[@jplucky2121]

We need the whole Xhekaj family in Montreal!! And with the mother to feeds the boys!

[@joemarsala5128]

A star is born.

[@alainbelso]

Because I was a fan of Arber, I was thrilled to see Kent pick Florian in the 4th round. And he's played great. The Habs need better 4th/3rd line players. He could fit right into that bottom 6 role..

[@DeepCdiver966]

Like you said...never underestimate a Xhekaj. What both parents overcame to make it in Canada has been passed on to their kids.

[@Zbooooooo]

Love the everyday content. GO HABS GO!!!!!

[@DAMNDANNY88]

was at the game, flobo is an absolute class act 🔥🔥🔥

[@myselfnooneelse3358]

some players bring skill some bring the grind both are needed for success. great that you are keeping eye on all players, have great time in montreal!

[@larrywatts2517]

Great teams like the habs always build big hard hitting 4th lines. Florian will fit in perfect !!!

[@kellyoskrdal890]

A solid 4th liner with the Habs

[@blessedbeliever8725]

Absolutely LOVE THIS KID…..we need guys with grit too, so both Xhekaj boys I hope will be around for a long time banging bodies and scoring goals.

[@random_adventuring]

I love how you get so excited about the Habs. Being from Alberta, I only have 1 friend who supports the bleu, blanc, et rouge. Even better coming from a Newfoundlander! You crack me up with your unique sayings!

[@Zaofieb]

That'd be awesome to have Xhekaj brothers playing together ! Not only because they are valuable and so fun to watch, but also because they are brothers !! I would feel my confidence pumped up so big with my sister or brother in my team ! And confidence is so crucial. Imagine the energy those two could bring, I can only imagine them being boosted by each other and boost the whole team along. I mean, brothers / sisters are usually (even more growing up playing the same sport) all time long teammates. And I'm pretty sure that the dream of playing with his big brother in the NHL drives a lot of Florian's motivation.

[@kevmccart6902]

Wow boyo you are fire! Under 30 mjn and already at 600 views! You are the voice of Hab nation. I've sent your link to numourous ppl on different pages and even Leaf,Bruin and Sens fan think you are dope!

[@ZombieJeezus420]

Her OUR junkie 😊

[@joeshmow1583]

He remindes me of Pat Maroon who carved out a pretty good name for himself. They are tge character guys who get you through the hard fought playoff battle. They finish every check which pays dividends in long series. I really hope we get both bros playing together.

[@a2zme]

Habs drafted their own version of Milan Lucic .. kid is going to be an NHLer .. 100%. #goHabsGo

[@QWERTDUDE12]

Imagine he beefs up and becomes like 210+ pounds 😬

[@micheldesormeau6828]

@@QWERTDUDE12there is no doubt. His brother is 40 lbs heavier.

[@amsro9094]

4C on the Habs soon enough, full season in the AHL next year, I'll be watching his development keenly.

[@carycwilliams]

Winger in the NHL, an absolute corner banger, a real problem for teams in the playoffs and with his brother, they will bring some teams to their knees. With Owen Beck, this will be Montreal's 3a-3b line. This team in 3 years will have 2 3rd lines at the bottom of their lineup.

[@Hiddensquid49]

He’s going to work his a$$ off right into the habs 2028-2029 roster. Kids going to continue growing and he has NHL full time players he will be training with in his brother and other guys during the off season. I would bet my bottom dollar you will see # 43 in Habs jersey in a few seasons. Go Jacky Jr.

[@AKAKATTACK_YT]

I think he'll be the perfect 4th liner for the habs

[@jonmaxwell7143]

I agree. Suzuki, Dach and Beck as the other three. I’d be pretty pumped for the team.

[@Wegogymbabayyyy]

Legit 95 % of my fam follows you we love your vids keep it up!

[@CoreySosner]

This brother tandem is gonna be SICK !!!! THE CUP IS ON ITS WAY ! And these two will be on it can’t wait !!! YUP I SAID IT

[@jasonwatson8945]

The kid will play in Montreal and we will love him!

[@cb84capri]

Put him in the lineup next season against Ottawa, along with Arby and Pez too!

[@Jwigg98]

absolute stud, just a menace in the Ohl. I Had no idea he was performing this well in the O. Good on him. Laval/bottom six on MTL if he maintains on this path of progress. Guy can do a bit of everything and he is obviously a Xhekaj. Love to see it.

[@cathybelanger3354]

Guys like Florian are indispensable in the NHL. I see him as a third line centre or second line winger because of his toughness and shot. He improved leaps and bounds this year and I think he can contribute after two seasons in the A.

[@Johnamekin]

Gotta give the devil with the missing teeth his due, you're the one that opened my eyes to Arber Xhekaj all the way back then. I remember telling my dad and him being like "Xhekawhat?" and now everytime we watch a game together and he lands a good hit he looks at me like im some genius for noticing the guy but thats you man :P

[@bobothehobo420]

The Sheriff and the Warden. GO HABS!

[@albertvnguyen]

In laval, he will bring size at the foward position, which they desperatly need.

[@lurkb]

He'S now a center! And he does well at it! 4th line centermen in the nhl ..At best 3rd! He won't stay in Laval for long I believe! He wants it bad!

[@janetcollins1129]

great again

[@amelbeecher6097]

Lottsa fun listening.. Thanks!

[@tommargarites2811]

Florian is doing great, for certian, he will make the habs roster eventually. however having done so well in this year, won't mean he won't slide back a little the next year he plays, it's part and parcel of any young player, as he adjusts to a higher level of play, and people need to remember, he's not yet with the Laval team yet, but I can see that coming soon as well as he contines to rack up the points. We just need to be patient until then.

[@Marc_de_Car]

Thank you

[@24cupsandcounting]

His progression is amazing since the draft and if he ends up being a 4th line NHLer he will be the good kind. Big, can skate, drop em, and chip in a few here and there. A very valuable asset come playoff time.

[@Lanwarder]

Crucial thing about the Xhekajs, they truly are a Habs family and they are a strong family. The kids grew up loving the Habs, the parents are amazing role models when it comes to taking every opportunity you have and refusing to let them go...The Xhekaj name says a lot about physical and psychological aspects....heck I was I was a Xhekaj...and I'm significantly older than both kids :p. I don't know if Arber will know a long NHL career, I don't even know if Florian will know an NHL career, but I know they'll both give all they got.

[@russell7995]

Another great video. GOTTA see the brothers together on the same shift with the Habs!!! It's the stuff of dreams! Florian will likely have to go through Laval first though. Can he head to Laval when his season is over?

[@mikebishop4430]

Sure would be nice to have them both playing for the Habs one day !

[@mikestewart6497]

the Deputy is the real deal. You've said it, Xhekaj's don't quit.

[@davidgillies1348]

Reminds me of a young Peter Mahovlich, he was 6'5" 210lbs

[@alschneider2820]

One Xhehaj for the Habs is great, but two would be freaking awesome💪🏽

[@djd2819]

Thanks for the vid. Another goodie and a great question. It's too early for me to say if FX is going to make the Habs roster but he's doing everything right at the moment to make it happen. As you say, Xhekajs don't appear to be quitters so if he doesn't make the squad, it won't be because of a lack of effort.

[@RB-wg3qm]

I love that nickname.

[@Unholy_Louie]

This year was the biggest jump anyone could have hoped for from him. The big question is whether he will be able to improve from where he ended that huge jump. But dude, even if he kinds of stagnate, I feel that we need to see him in the AHL before betting against the kid. Plus in the NHL his role would be very different than what he’s doing in his he OHL. I think he’ll be part of a great bottom 6 core in MTL eventually, filled almost exclusively with our own developed players. Those guys will give the team big discounts that will add up in the under the tight cap.

[@paganhorde4463]

Love the underdog story. And love having a team full of hard working people. Whuawa is a 5th rounder, Arber is a grocery storeroom pick. That's the kind of grit that cannot be coached

[@toddlauretteHabsforlife]

He gets better every year, that's the kind of player we need, plus, to be honest, we could use the size & grit. We have a lot of smaller players, other than Anderson, i dont think we have enough big forwards, we also have Armia, and Slaf, that's all i can think of. Anderson and Slaf are our two forwards that are over 220. I know it's not all about size, but it helps! Youth and size. That's what we arre after.

[@rogerbutchbouchard8019]

Oh, he will make the Habs after one season at Laval!

[@JohannesS]

He WILL play with the big club, if he can keep up the same insane work ethic and improvement he has shown this past season.

[@stockey]

I think he's not finish progessing yet.

[@raymondtalbot6104]

The "Brothers of Destruction" in Montreal. I'd like that.

[@jordanne03]

Can’t wait for the avs vid

[@iamwonderFil]

junkie! fantastic video. classic prospect content that made you a star. great stuff. are there any other xhekajs? cousins?

[@gioscott2363]

My favorite video from that era was the Arber revenge game. I think it was against Hamilton? As far as little brother goes, if he contiues to improve he can definatley make the NHL.

[@crazeinthedark]

It’s like you said, he brings more to the table. Imagine Pezz but bigger, stronger, and better at hockey. He’ll be the perfect 3rd line player, teams will fear the Xhekaj’s. As long as they can stay disciplined they will be extremely valuable come playoff time

[@markgaudreau8053]

Go Habs Go

[@centerhice7948]

Great video bro , I m like you , I m hoping for him to, we could use his size

[@carycwilliams]

You win in the playoffs with players like Florian and Arber. They are both skilled and not one dimensional. Both have a desire to keep improving, and both carry a chip to show the world that they are both more than what people thought of them in the first place. Montreal will win the Stanley Cup with these two playing a big role. Both are massively respectful and humble.

[@jakelimoges5475]

honestly I hope he gets a fair shot at a roster spot with the big club in camp next year. I think he's the kind of player that would develop well with only 8 minutes a night, but lots of reps against NHLers in practice. where i don't know if I could say the same about Mesar or to a lesser extent Beck. He also wouldn't have the same level of pressure for offensive production like other prospects. just be physical.

[@oogaboooga69]

Its a pity Mesar slowed down at the end of the season.. id say the majority of the season he was in top 5-10 PPG in the whole league. He did really well at the WJC too.. Im a bit dissapointed in him he kinda went quiet, but I still have high hopes for him tbh

[@simplyskrypt3914]

After getting drafted, florian promised us a 30 goal season. He has 34

[@RB-wg3qm]

So, you are saying he lied?

[@simplyskrypt3914]

@@RB-wg3qm yes. I hate dishonesty. Players should know 3 years in advance what their exact numbers are going to be, and they cannot be off by even 1 point

[@user-fx4qb3tg6n]

Hey junkie, been listening to your show for a while now love the energy, the jokes and the content. One of the best hockey content shows out there! I read an article of a possible future trade scenario that i personally didn't agree with and not even sure if its true. It was talking about new jersey and montreal possibly having a plan of trading Alexander Holz for josh Anderson, arber xjakai and a high draft pick, how high who knows but I think it would be a mistake trading Arber he's just so unique and I think he has great leadership qualities. What are your thoughts on this and have you heard of this or read about it?

[@Duaner244]

On the last play, I’ve seen Mario!

[@levichatillon5991]

Did you go to the bell center yet?

[@darinblair2469]

He will play for the habs

[@filterlessbear9250]

I'm more excited about Florian than Beck! They both got 34 goals, but one of them is 6'3" and a nasty streak! I think playoff time Florian will ba a beast and we'll soon see in the ohl playoffs!

[@codseal8263]

Isn’t florian 6’4 already? Kid is an absolute unit

[@janbogumil]

🦘!!!

[@FoundPonds]

TIL there is another Xhekaj coming up lol

[@QWERTDUDE12]

He plays my 67's in the 1st round of the playoffs, the most torn i've ever been

[@brianclavette1269]

Been watching Florian in Brantford all season and let me tell you, he controls the game when he is on the ice.

[@adamp2056]

He makes the team at 19

[@brianmelbourne6842]

Nice story hope it has a happy ending

[@IcyRose1369]

That thumbnail scared me i thought Arber got traded to Boston. Then i realized the deadline is over 😅

[@thenextpoetician6328]

I'd suggest his growth spurt had more to do with his season than being drafted, but it doesn't matter, because he had that growth spurt and he got drafted by the Habs so all is right in the universe on this crazy ass upside down planet.

[@johnmcgarvie4061]

The Deputy Sheriff has arrived!

[@jonathanvanoostveen5309]

Such a dusty number in 43 too! Can he please play for the Canadiens so we can get the Bash Bros going?

[@rinobourgoin8829]

Well we need to see some consistency….. Will he repeat for another season or maybe he is going to Laval and let’s see. But let’s dream a little that he makes the Habs in two years playing a third line with Roy Bech XHEKAJ !!!

[@jordanhogan6511]

Roy will be 2nd line next year

[@anthonydamico8705]

Montreal bound

[@JoTheSnoop]

I think Florian would suit as a 3rd Line Forward for Montreal.

[@maximetremblay1716]

2025 at laval and 2026 in Montréal for Florian

[@meller7303]

Junkie, you’re 100% an Austin powers fan aren’t you? I swear I’ve heard a ton of subtle nods to those movies throughout your videos 😂

[@HockeyJunkie]

Yup, I've watched those movies many times hahahaha

[@meller7303]

@@HockeyJunkie classics lol, I’ve watched them many times myself! Btw loving the videos man, I’m a fellow Newfie/Habs fan, and I couldn’t imagine a more fitting channel for me! Appreciate the mix of humour and legitimate info. Cheers

[@HockeyJunkie]

@meller7303 thanks bud , I’m happy to hear you enjoy the videos ! Go habs go !

[@adamjardine9592]

I think we should move them up to Laval for the end of the season if we make a playoff run some minutes fourth line or even third

[@guitar10masta]

He’s our version of Brady tkachuk get him practicing with the NHLers this summer. And watch his rise to 2nd line winger for the Habs in 4 years

[@TomCrouchman.]

Florian can achieve what Pezzetta has i am sure. Maybe more as he is bigger and more skilled.

[@robertalan2427]

Two jackeyes on same team ...clear the track

[@TheKaves2]

I believe

[@oven723]

I thought we traded florian to Pittsburgh because of the thumbnail💀💀damnit thumbnail guy

[@stackula99]

Luh, what are people even worried about? They probably had the same doubts about the Sedin brother's in Vancouver too.

[@reynaldpelletier]

Let him grow up, don't jump any stage in his development. He's going to be a hard nose player

[@RB-wg3qm]

I think its still too early to say where his potential is. Remember, we have many other options too. Also, i think we should nickname him Special FX.

[@EnerGeezerSquirrel]

...so if the big one is "WiFi" will the little one be "BluToot?"

[@jonathchamp8450]

i thinks the guy will have his specific chair un the mtl

[@Titanic_Consumer]

by any chance do you live in laval

[@HockeyJunkie]

nope, Newfoundland haha

[@Titanic_Consumer]

oh nice@@HockeyJunkie

[@mikepost1630]

Florian may be getting a little puck luck this season but he’s been too good for too much of the season to say it’s just completely over achieving. He’s got the frame and skill set to possibly fit as either a third or fourth center so I’ll keep watching with great interest when he’s in Laval next year.

[@p.g.944]

He's agood project for sure, he reminds me of harvey-pinard as far as expections goes. He's at least a good ahl player, maybe a gritty bottom-6 one. Anything over that is unexpected and anything under that is underwhelming.

[@RitchieSimpson]

both them late bloomers, he'll be in the show for sure.

[@StephenCardinal-r3b]

A much better Anderson perhaps !!!❤

[@toddlauretteHabsforlife]

I know it's NEVER going to happen, but I have been hearing a lot about Draisaitl going to Montreal, when his contract is up in Edmonton. They cant afford to keep him after signing Nurse to so much money. Hard to believe Darnell Nurse makes more money then Draisaitl, he must have been the best contrract inthe NHL. He is going to want to get paid tho on his next contract, they're saying close to $15M!!! That's A LOT of money, that's almost what we r paying Nick and Cole!! lol. We need a goal-scoring stud tho! If I have to hear the term "score by committee" one more time referring to the habs, im going to lose my fuckin mind!!!