Tensions Boil Over Early as Maple Leafs Prospect Chas Sharpe Fights Forian Xhekaj

This weekend marks our first look at some actual competitive hockey this fall, with the Maple Leafs prospects in Montreal to take on the Canadiens prospects in a 2-game showcase, taking place on Saturday and Sunday ahead of the start of training camp next week.

Leafs prospects are looking to try to make a name for themselves this weekend, showing Marlies head coach John Gruden what he can expect from them as they navigate their way through the Maple Leafs' system. For some of these players, a stint with the ECHL's Cincinnati Cyclones is likely on tap, while others will suit up for the AHL's Toronto Marlies this season. For a rare few, there is a shot at an NHL job, but for most, they're still a ways away.

One of the players looking to stand out for his ferociousness is defenseman Chas Sharpe, who wasted no time putting that chip on his shoulder on display in a 1st period tilt with Florian Xhekaj just two minutes into today's game.

Sharpe, a former Mississauga Steelhead, suited up in 1 game with the Marlies last season, producing no points, but picking up a minor penalty. If he wants to compete for a spot with the Marlies, he'll be expected to leave it all out on the ice, as he did by dropping the gloves with Xhekaj, younger brother of Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj, who remains one of the most feared up-and-coming enforcers in the league.