What happened: The Montreal Gazette reports trade rumors continue to swirl around Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj, who remains unsigned. Xhekaj's contract status has kept his future with the club unresolved.

Why it matters: Xhekaj's next deal, whether in Montreal or elsewhere, shapes the Canadiens' blue-line depth heading into the 2026-27 season, extending a storyline that has drawn momentum for weeks.

What to watch: Watch for either a new contract with Montreal or a trade to surface as Xhekaj's unsigned status persists.