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Watch: Habs' Florian Xhekaj throws knuckle bombs onto Chas Sharpe in his first shift
Montreal Canadiens forward Florian Xhekaj wasted no time in dropping the gloves in his first pre-season game. He found a willing dance partner on his first shift in the game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The matchup is part of the Rookie Prospects Showdown event between the two clubs.
The Habs and Leafs squared off at the Bell Centre on Saturday, showcasing the young talent on both sides. But on Florian Xhekaj’s first shift, he showcased his fists with Leafs player Chas Sharpe. Both pugilists traded blows before hitting the ice before officials stepped in to break up the altercation.
Check out the brawl between Florian Xhekaj and Chas Sharpe here:
Xhekaj is known as a talented but intimidating player, so he made sure his presence was felt early on, setting the tone for the game.
Florian Xhekaj, the brother of Arber Xkehaj, could have a realistic chance to be on the Canadiens’ roster this upcoming season. As such, this first pre-season scrum could be an indication of what fans could expect during the season.
The entertaining bout underscored the rivalry between both clubs. The Habs and Leafs will meet several more times during the pre-season. Fans should expect plenty of fireworks as the Original Six teams fight for a playoff spot in the Atlantic Division.
Toronto Maple Leafs edge Florian Xhekaj and the Canadiens in Game 1 of Rookie Prospects Showdown
Beyond the fisticuffs, the action on the ice proved entertaining. The Leafs edged the Canadiens 4-3 in the shootout. The game went into overtime, but the extra shootout round was needed to settle the final score.
The Leafs pounded the Habs with three power play goals. The markers came from top Toronto prospects Easton Cowan, Fraser Minten and Braeden Kressler. Kressler joined the Leafs as a free-agent signing this summer, while Cowan and Minten are considered the Maple Leafs’ top prospects.
Adam Engstrom, Tyler Thorpe and Owen Beck responded for the Montreal Canadiens. Overall, the Canadiens controlled much of the game, outshooting Toronto 35-24.
Down 3-2 late in the second period, Beck potted his first goal of the game to tie it at three-all. With no scoring in the third period and overtime, the shootout round decided the winner, wher Cowan and Minten scored to give the Leafs a 4-3 win.
The two clubs meet again on Sunday at the Bell Centre. The game is scheduled for 1 p.m. EST. The matchup will be available on both teams’ websites for free. So, fans can check out the action as the Habs look to even their Rookie Showcase series with Toronto.
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