'The guys love Arber Xhekaj: he’s the real deal'

Arber Xhekaj has just dropped to the club’s #7 defenseman spot right before our eyes.

For the past few games, Jayden Struble has taken his place in the lineup. He's gaining confidence, and his coach has confidence in him, too.

Since he's playing with Lane Hutson and the team doesn't seem to want to break up the pairings… that keeps the door closed for the Sheriff in the short term.

Of course, things can change quickly. But Tony Marinaro is right to point out that last year, in the weeks leading up to the playoffs, it was the American who played more than the Canadian.

Struble also started the playoffs on the ice, not in the stands.

Everyone is aware that Xhekaj is going to be pushed out of the organization. It's practically inevitable when you look at it, at this point in his career.

But that doesn't change the fact that the player beloved by fans is also beloved by his teammates. Marinaro said it on the Sick Podcast: he's a true… and in the locker room, the guys appreciate him.