Who Is Arber Xhekaj? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Arber Xhekaj was born on January 30, 2001, which makes him 24 years old in 2025. He is a professional ice hockey player from Canada, known for his physical play and strong defensive skills. Xhekaj began his career in junior hockey and quickly made a name for himself, eventually paving his way to the National Hockey League (NHL). His journey through various leagues has showcased his incredible talent, determination, and love for the game.
| Occupation | Hockey Player |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 30, 2001 |
| Age | 25 Years |
| Birth Place | Hamilton, Ontario, Canada |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | Canada |
Popularity
Arber Xhekaj's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Arber Xhekaj stands tall at 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm) and weighs approximately 215 pounds (98 kg). His height and weight contribute to his notable presence on the ice, allowing him to perform effectively in his defensive role. With an athletic build and strong physique, he embodies the ideal profile of a modern ice hockey defenseman, making him a key player in any lineup.
With injuries to veteran defencemen Mike Matheson and Joel Edmundson, additional openings were created for rookies to make the Canadiens' lineup. On October 10, 2022, it was confirmed that Xhekaj had made the team's opening night roster ahead of the 2022–23 regular season.
Upon making his NHL debut on October 12, Xhekaj became the first player in NHL history to have a surname beginning with the letter X. Xhekaj earned the nickname "Wi-Fi" from his teammates due its underlying spelling being perceived as similar to a default password programmed onto an internet router.
He picked up his first NHL point, an assist, on October 15 versus the Washington Capitals, and drew further headlines shortly thereafter for winning his first fight in the NHL against Arizona Coyotes forward Zack Kassian, one of the league's more noted enforcers.
Xhekaj scored his first NHL goal in a 5–2 loss to the Dallas Stars on October 22, also recording an assist in the same game. Xhekaj's debut season ended when he sustained a season-ending shoulder injury on February 12, 2023. In 51 games with the Canadiens, he recorded five goals and eight assists, and led the team in penalty minutes with 101.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Arber Xhekaj remains private about his personal life. He has not publicly disclosed any details regarding his current relationship status or whether he has a girlfriend or boyfriend. Although speculation arises from time to time, Xhekaj focuses primarily on his career and commitments in the NHL. Fans and media respect his desire for privacy, but they remain eager for any updates about his romantic life.
While playing minor ice hockey with the Hamilton Huskies of Alliance Hockey, Xhekaj was known for having a comparatively slight frame, and, as a result, was not selected in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) 2017 Priority Selection draft.
He was one of only two eligible players on his team who were not drafted, which he called "pretty tough." Despite contemplating ending his hockey career, he was encouraged to continue by his parents.
Net Worth and Salary
Arber Xhekaj's net worth in 2025 is estimated to be around $5 million. This figure reflects his contracts, endorsements, and other income sources associated with his hockey career. As a promising player in the NHL, Xhekaj's salary is likely to increase as he gains more recognition and continues to excel in the league. His current annual salary is estimated to be approximately $1 million, which includes bonuses and performance incentives.
Career, Business, and Investments
After starting in junior hockey, Arber Xhekaj was drafted into the NHL and quickly made his mark. In addition to his performance on the ice, he has also explored various business ventures, including partnerships with local brands and sponsorship deals that amplify his presence both on and off the ice. His commitment to his craft and business acumen indicates a promising future that extends beyond his playing days.
As a restricted free agent following season's end, Xhekaj was tenured a qualifying offer by the Canadiens on June 30, 2024. A month later, he signed a two-year, $2.6 million contract extension.
Entering play for the 2024–25 season, Xhekaj was involved in an incident with Toronto Maple Leafs forward Cédric Paré during a preseason game on September 29, 2024, where was assessed a fine for unsportsmanlike conduct by the NHL Department of Player Safety. Shortly thereafter, he skated in his 100th career NHL game on October 17.
Xhekaj's performances earned praise for much of the season, however, after errors during the team's closing push to make the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs, he was subsequently scratched for the team's final five games.
He remained out of the lineup for the start of the Canadiens' first round playoff series against the Washington Capitals, but eventually made his NHL playoff debut in game 3 on April 25, 2025.
Social Network
Arber Xhekaj is active on social media platforms where he connects with fans and shares glimpses of his personal life and career. You can find him on platforms like:
- Instagram: @arberxhekaj
- Twitter: @ArberXhekaj
Upon entering the Canadiens' summer training, Xhekaj was initially considered more likely to earn a regular place on American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Laval Rocket, but continued to distinguish himself in rookie tournament and preseason play.
In the ensuing preseason, his aggressive physical style attracted attention from opposing teams' fans, notably the Ottawa Senators. In response, he stated, "when their whole Sens Nation is talking about me, it's pretty good. I like being the bad guy."
Education
While much of Arber's time was dedicated to pursuing a career in hockey from a young age, he also emphasized the importance of education. During his junior hockey years, he sought to balance athletics with studies. Specific details about his formal education are less discussed, but he remains committed to personal development off the ice, understanding the importance of education and growth beyond sports.
Xhekaj remained with the Rangers at the beginning of the 2021–22 season, acquiring a reputation as a dangerous defenceman who was described by The Hockey News as having "effectively blended the old-school enforcer with the modern-day defensive blueliner." He was suspended twice in the fall, once for a slew foot and once for a gesture made after a
fight.
Amongst his teammates, he was known as "the Sheriff." Midway through the year, Xhekaj was traded to his hometown-based Hamilton Bulldogs. Joining a highly touted Bulldogs team, Xhekaj participated in their J. Ross Robertson Cup victory in the 2022 OHL playoffs and played in that year's Memorial Cup tournament.
Hamilton advanced to the championship game where they were defeated by host, the Saint John Sea Dogs. For his performance, Xhekaj was named to the Memorial Cup All-Star Team.
