Xhekaj Passes on Arbitration, Betting on His Own Market Value

The defenseman has decided to skip the arbitration process and test the open market instead, a calculated risk that suggests confidence in his negotiating position. By electing not to file, Xhekaj is essentially saying he believes he can land a better deal through direct talks than an arbitrator would award him. This move could reshape his contract situation and signals where both he and his camp think his value truly sits.