The Montreal Canadiens have announced the loan of defenseman David Reinbacher to their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Laval Rocket.
This move comes as Reinbacher completes his recovery from a knee injury sustained during a preseason game against the Toronto Maple Leafs on September 28, 2024. The injury required surgery on his left knee, sidelining the promising young defenseman for several months.
Reinbacher, the fifth overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, began practicing with the Canadiens on January 27, 2025, marking a significant milestone in his rehabilitation process. Despite his return to practice, he has yet to make his debut with the Canadiens this season. The decision to assign him to the Laval Rocket is aimed at providing him with valuable playing time to regain his form and continue his development in a competitive environment.
Prior to his injury, Reinbacher showcased his potential during the 2023-24 season. He played 11 games with the Rocket, recording five points (two goals and three assists) and achieving a plus-6 differential. His performance demonstrated his adaptability to the North American style of play and underscored his offensive and defensive capabilities.
The 20-year-old Austrian defenseman has also gained experience in European leagues. During the 2022-23 season, Reinbacher played for EHC Kloten in Switzerland’s National League, where he recorded three goals and 19 assists in 46 games. His impressive performance earned him the league’s Youngster of the Year award, highlighting his status as one of the most promising young talents in European hockey.
The loan to Laval is a strategic move by the Canadiens’ management to ensure Reinbacher receives ample ice time as he returns from injury. Playing in the AHL will allow him to reacclimate to game speed and physicality, providing a platform to refine his skills and build confidence. This approach aligns with the organization’s commitment to developing its prospects methodically, ensuring they are well-prepared for the rigors of the NHL.
Reinbacher’s return is highly anticipated by both the Canadiens and Rocket fan bases. His combination of size, skating ability, and hockey intelligence makes him a valuable asset to the organization’s blue line. As he embarks on this next phase of his career, all eyes will be on his performance in Laval, with the hope that he will soon make a seamless transition to the NHL and contribute significantly to the Canadiens’ future success.
In summary, David Reinbacher’s loan to the Laval Rocket represents a pivotal step in his professional journey. It offers him the opportunity to regain his pre-injury form, continue his development, and demonstrate his readiness for the NHL stage. The Canadiens’ organization and its supporters eagerly await his contributions, confident in his potential to become a cornerstone of the team’s defense for years to come.