The Canadiens & Senators who are known for their intense rivalry were already in mid season form when Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj crushed Senators star Tim Stutzle with head shot. The hit hapnned well after Stutzle had passed the puck, leading to Xhekaj's ejection from the game.
Earlier in the game, Canadiens forward Kirby Dach was hit in the head by Senators forward Ridly Greig, and some believe Xhekaj's hit on Stutzle was payback for that incident. Before leaving the ice, Xhekaj was challenged to a fight by Senators captain Brady Tkachuk.
The condition of Stutzle is still unknown, but Xhekaj's aggressive play is nothing new. Just recently, Xhekaj fought Cedric Pare after Canadiens' forward Patrik Laine was injured in a previous game. Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis had praised Xhekaj for standing up for his teammate after the Laine incident, but this latest hit may result in another fine or even a suspension.
As more updates come in on the situation, we'll keep you informed.
POLL | ||
1 OCTOBRE | 420 ANSWERS Arber Xhekaj ejected from the game following dirty head shot on Tim Stutzle Will Arber Xhekaj be suspended for his hit on Tim Stutzle? | ||
Yes | 260 | 61.9 % |
No | 160 | 38.1 % |
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