Arber Xhekaj's reasoning for not signing with the Canadiens has been revealed

Xhekaj, 25, is coming off a two-year, $2.6 million contract that expired at the end of the 2025-26 season.

With Montreal's training camp just weeks away, the restricted free agent defenseman has yet to commit to an extension, and Engels suggested the delay is tied directly to how crowded the Canadiens' blue line has become.

According to Engels, Xhekaj could be holding off because he is watching to see whether Montreal moves one of its defensemen before he signs.

That framing suggests Xhekaj's camp may be betting that a trade elsewhere on the roster could open up more consistent ice time or leverage before finalizing a new deal.

The Canadiens have several young, capable defensemen competing for spots, which has fueled speculation that general manager Kent Hughes could look to deal from that depth to bolster the forward group.

For a physical, fan favorite piece like Xhekaj, waiting to see how that shakes out could shape both his role and his next contract.

Montreal still has other business to sort out this offseason, including a pending extension for forward Zachary Bolduc, but Xhekaj's situation appears to hinge on factors beyond just dollars and term.

Engels' comments indicate the defenseman and his camp are watching the Canadiens' roster moves closely before putting pen to paper.

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