Arber Xhekaj is once again under NHL review following a controversial moment in the Montreal Canadiens' playoff series against the Buffalo Sabres. The tough defenseman threw a hard cross-check in NHL Game 4, adding to the growing buzz about possible action from the NHL Department of Player Safety.
The incident came just after Arber Xhekaj was fined by the league after NHL Game 3. A new discussion sparked in the NHL news roundup with the latest controversy, tensions boil over in the playoff clash with issues of player discipline, Montreal Canadiens tactics and Buffalo Sabres responses in the postseason duel.
Arber Xhekaj Cross-Check Shocks Buffalo Sabres
Arber Xhekaj's cross-check on Buffalo Sabres forward Konsta Helenius quickly turned into one of the biggest talking points from NHL Game 4. After a Buffalo Sabres goal was disallowed, a chaotic sequence occurred near the Montreal Canadiens' net. Replays appeared to show Xhekaj's stick contacting the back and head region of Helenius.
No penalty was called during the game by officials, but video clips quickly circulated across social media and NHL update platforms. Many analysts believe the NHL's Department of Player Safety could take a look at the incident because of the league's recent emphasis on cutting down on dangerous head contact in playoff games.
Previous Fine and Reduced Ice Time
The controversy comes at a difficult time for the Montreal Canadiens defenseman. Arber Xhekaj was fined the maximum allowable under the NHL collective bargaining agreement for an incident with Buffalo Sabres forward Sam Carrick in NHL Game 3 just days ago. NHL Game 4 also seemed to bring internal response from Montreal Canadiens head coach Martin St-Louis. Xhekaj saw his ice time drastically cut and was on the bench for long stretches.
The incident only added to the postseason rivalry for the Buffalo Sabres, who were already in a heated one. Players were seen reacting in shock after the incident, while fans took to social media to call for league intervention. NHL review conversations are expected to continue as the playoff series plays out, though the league has not announced any disciplinary action.
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