[Sports Illustrated: The Hockey News] - Canadiens: The Big Battle For The Third Pairing

Another year, another battle between Arber Xhekaj and Jayden Struble for a role on the Montreal Canadiens' third pairing. Both blueliners saw a lot of action last year thanks to injuries suffered by other members of the defense corps. Stuble skated in 56 games (just like the previous year) and Xhekaj took part in 70 games (more than he had ever played in a season); the former finished the regular season in the lineup, while the latter reintegrated the lineup for the playoffs.