Bulldogs’ Xhekaj signs with Canadiens
BRANTFORD, ONT. – Brantford Bulldogs forward Florian Xhekaj, on Tuesday, officially signed a NHL Entry-Level Contract with the Montreal Canadiens who selected the dominant power-forward in the fourth round, 101st overall in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, and will report to the Laval Rocket of the AHL for the remainder of the season on a PTO.
Continuing the incredible story of the Xhekaj family, Florian went undrafted into the OHL and never let it deter him. Going to the Pelham Panthers of the GOJHL, Xhekaj led his team in scoring as a rookie, posting 17 goals and 23 assists for 40 points in 48 games, leading the team by double digits in points.
His brilliant run in the GOJHL led to the Bulldogs to signing him on July 15, 2022, following in the footsteps of his older brother Arber who he now joins officially in the Canadiens organization.
Xhekaj made immediate strides his first OHL season, posting 13 goals and 12 assists for 25 points while playing in all 68 games. Xhekaj continued his strong debut in the playoffs where he added another three points through six playoff games. His efforts in the 2022-23 season led to being selected by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft and from there a fire was lit for his return to the Bulldogs for the 2023-24 season.
Taking the ice in Brantford and now in a role as an offensive leader, Xhekaj responded with 34 goals and 31 assists for 65 points, nearly tripling his rookie outing, in 63 games. Trusted to take big faceoffs and kill penalties, Xhekaj refined his 200-foot game in addition to his offensive explosion and imposing physical presence.
“In signing with the Montreal Canadiens, Florian continues one of the greatest stories in hockey history”, said Brantford Bulldogs General Manager Matt Turek. “To arrive as an undrafted free agent in the OHL and earn his way to an NHL contract and a future as a professional hockey player, speaks to the character and work ethic that we have seen define Florian Xhekaj. The Bulldogs organization couldn’t be prouder of what Florian has accomplished to date and what he will continue to do moving forward”.
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