Florian Xhekaj and Montembeault shine in Canadiens’ 4–2 win over Senators

On September 26 at the Bell Centre, the Montreal Canadiens posted a 4–2 win over the Ottawa Senators in a pre-season matchup that put the spotlight on two players in particular: Florian Xhekaj and Samuel Montembeault. In front of an engaged crowd, both made strong cases for themselves and helped reinforce the sense that they belong firmly in the Canadiens’ plans this year.

Xhekaj’s physical edge ignites the Bell Centre

Throughout the game, Florian Xhekaj drew attention with a series of hard body checks. His physical play helped tilt the ice in Montreal’s favour and repeatedly brought the Bell Centre to its feet. Each big hit ramped up the noise level and underlined how determined he seemed to be to seize his opportunity in a lineup still being fine-tuned.

In a pre-season setting where roles and roster spots are still being sorted out, that kind of presence can weigh heavily in management’s evaluation. Even if nothing has been formally announced, Xhekaj’s intensity and willingness to engage physically only strengthen the perception that he is pushing hard for a regular spot with the Canadiens.

Montembeault locks things down in relief

Midway through the second period, Samuel Montembeault came on in relief in the Canadiens’ net. Almost immediately, he delivered a remarkable sequence of four saves in just 18 seconds, a burst of goaltending that electrified the building and helped steady the game. From that point on, he continued to turn away every shot he faced, finishing his outing without conceding a goal.

Those key stops played a major role in preserving Montreal’s advantage and closing out the 4–2 result. For a goaltender looking to solidify his place in the organization, such a performance sends a clear message to the coaching staff and front office about his reliability under pressure.

St. Louis’ perspective and a glimpse of future storytellers

After the game, head coach Martin St. Louis noted with a smile that his favourite players to coach are still his three sons. That said, on a night when Xhekaj was throwing his weight around and “Monty” was shutting the door, it is easy to imagine both carving out a special place in their coach’s esteem as well.

The Xhekaj name also sparked some light-hearted chatter, with references to the hamburger already named after Arber Xhekaj and playful suggestions that Florian, sometimes dubbed the “deputy sheriff,” might deserve his own menu item after this showing. Beyond the on-ice storylines, a group of young guests were at the Bell Centre for a one-day introduction to sports journalism, watching the action from behind the scenes. One of them summed up that passion simply, saying he loves that sports reporting lets him “watch sports” and explain the game to others.

Between a solid pre-season win, standout individual efforts and the fresh eyes of aspiring reporters, the evening offered the Canadiens more than just a positive scoreline.