Canadiens: Gallagher and Xhekaj Enjoying the Break

As the NHL takes a temporary pause for the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, Montreal Canadiens players Brendan Gallagher and Arber Xhekaj are making the most of the break, taking the opportunity to relax and recharge.

With the intensity of the regular season behind them, both players have embraced the downtime, looking to return to action with fresh energy when the league resumes its regular schedule.

Gallagher, a seasoned veteran in his 13th NHL season, has been an integral part of the Canadiens for over a decade. Known for his grit and determination on the ice, Gallagher has faced numerous challenges throughout his career, including injuries and the pressures of playing for a passionate fanbase. This brief hiatus has provided Gallagher with the perfect chance to reset both mentally and physically.

Although the break has been brief, it has allowed him to reconnect with family and friends, helping him to unwind before the demanding games resume.

“I’m just taking it easy right now,” Gallagher said. “It’s nice to be able to step back for a bit, spend time with the people I care about, and just enjoy the little things. You need this time to refresh, especially with how fast the season can go. I’ll be ready to get back on the ice when we come back.”

Meanwhile, Arber Xhekaj, the young defenseman making waves with his hard-hitting style, has also been using the break to focus on his recovery and personal growth. Known for his toughness and ability to protect his teammates, Xhekaj has quickly become a fan favorite since making his NHL debut last season.

As a rookie, the 22-year-old has faced the physical and mental demands of the league, and the break provides him with a welcome opportunity to focus on his off-ice training and rest his body.

“I’ve been focusing on staying in shape and making sure I’m ready to come back stronger,” Xhekaj explained. “It’s also nice to just take a step back, clear my head, and appreciate what we’ve accomplished so far this season. But now, it’s all about preparation for the second half of the year.”

Both players, though at different stages of their careers, understand the importance of finding balance during this break. As the NHL season resumes, fans can expect Gallagher’s relentless play and Xhekaj’s physicality to be back in full force, contributing to the Canadiens’ efforts to finish the season strong.

For now, the duo is making the most of this short but valuable time off, knowing that the grind of the season will quickly return.