Montreal Canadiens Player Scores Goal to Honor Kosovo Independence Day

Arber Xhekaj, a defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens, scored a goal in honor of Kosovo Independence Day, following a request from his father, Jack Xhekaj, who works as a welder at National Steel Car in Hamilton.

Xhekaj’s parents, Jack and Simona Xhekaj, came to Canada in the 1990s from Kosovo and the Czech Republic, respectively, in search of better opportunities.

Independence Day for Kosovo is observed on February 17, commemorating the country’s declaration of independence from Serbia in 2008, a significant event for the nation’s history.

In a game against the Washington Capitals, Xhekaj’s father, Jack, reached out to his son on game day, asking him to score a goal in celebration of Kosovo Independence Day.

During the match, Xhekaj fired a point-blank shot that reached an impressive speed of 102.2 mph, netting a goal at the 5:04 mark of the first period.

While the Canadiens ultimately fell short with a 4-3 loss to the Capitals, Xhekaj’s goal marked a special moment for his family and the fans celebrating Kosovo Independence Day.

Previously playing for the Laval Rocket in the AHL, Xhekaj was recalled to the Canadiens after a stint in the minor league and displayed a notable performance against Washington with increased confidence and solid plays throughout the game.

Xhekaj, who made the jump from the OHL‘s Hamilton Bulldogs to the NHL last season, is determined to support his family and help them retire through his NHL career.

His younger brother, Florian Xhekaj, a draft pick of the Canadiens, continues to excel in the OHL with the Brantford Bulldogs, showcasing impressive stats in the league.