NEGOTIATIONS: Dach Files for Arbitration, Xhekaj Skips | Habs Avoid Offer Sheets + Bolduc Review

Montreal Canadiens face pivotal contract crossroads as Kirby Dach files for salary arbitration while Arber Xhekaj opts out. Are ongoing negotiations setting the stage for a roster shakeup, or will stability win out for Kent Hughes’ squad?

Ian Boisvert and Laura Saba break down what Dach’s arbitration filing and Xhekaj’s decision mean for potential offer sheets, trade value, and salary cap strategy. The hosts also spotlight chaos across the NHL, from the Philadelphia Flyers’ blockbuster $18 million offer sheet to Anaheim Ducks’ Leo Carlsson to management missteps reminiscent of Marc Bergevin’s tenure. Plus, a full-season review of Zachary Bolduc’s emergence as Montreal’s potential next-level pest—can he lock down the perfect bottom-six role and become a true local success story?

03:26 Contract uncertainties with Xhekaj and Dach

06:29 Kirby Dach's qualifying offer

10:55 Discussing NHL arbitration scenarios

13:09 Record NHL player salary

17:55 Being part of a team

23:21 Zachary Bolduc trade discussion

28:11 Discussing a controversial hockey player

32:08 Podcast schedule update

Photo credit: Eric Bolte - Imagn Images

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