During the 2nd period of tonight's game between the Montreal Canadiens and Nashville Predators, Arber Xhekaj continued to build on his reputation. In less than half a season Xhekaj has already shown he's one of the toughest in the league. That was on full display again.
Late in the 2nd, Xhekaj and Tanner Jeannot squared off in a spirited tilt. As the two square off they exchange shots, before Xhekaj lands a massive right hand that rocks Jeannot. Jeannot doesn't go down immediately, but is clearly rocked.
It's clear Xhekaj is moving up the ranks rather quickly. But where does he rank in the toughest players in the NHL?