Good analysis which is on point.
Florian Xhekaj provides an excellent example of why you should never pigeon-hole players based simply on their size and supposed reputation. I knew little about Florian at the start of last season other than what most people understood, that he was largely a nepotistic draft choice, who offered 4th line toughness. Then I watched him play (over 40 games) and quickly recognized that Xhekaj was no mere bottom line enforcer.
Florian showed well above-average straightforward speed, hand skills, offensive creativeness and an overall skill set that allowed him to play in all game situations. Most importantly, he played on the Bulldogs first power play unit manning the right point/half boards. It should have been obvious to any observer, that this fourth round draft choice had more upside than the accepted , predictable view of Florian being no more than a possible bottom line, physical enforcer at the NHL level.
I was so impressed with this kid that I even suggested he should be on Team Canada's radar for the 2024 WJC. As it turned out, Canada could have used Xhekaj's straight - line speed at the WJC rather than some of the smallish, plugs that Hockey Canada seems to have a penchant for.
I think at this stage, Florian has to be easily considered among Montreal's top 3-4 forward prospects. He has just started to scratch the surface of his potential. While he still has to gain some quickness, his short sojourn in the AHL has shown that this kid has what it takes to play, and play effectively, against professional players.
I think all this too predictable talk of Florian being our Maroon, etc. is way off-base. Xhekaj's level of success in professional hockey will be based on his emerging hockey skills. This kid can skate, shoot and be a playmaker. His size and controlled physical aggressiveness, is just a bonus. I see his role being more a top six forward than a bottom six one.
This kid will be interesting to watch.
We got lucky with this pick. Or just maybe, Hughes is that good.