Canadiens GM Kent Hughes Discusses David Reinbacher’s Future

The future of David Reinbacher with the Montreal Canadiens remains in question as General Manager Kent Hughes emphasizes that the decision on whether he starts the season in Montreal or the AHL will depend on Reinbacher’s performance during training camp. Drafted fifth overall in the 2023 NHL Draft, ahead of notable talents such as Matvei Michkov, Reinbacher is viewed as a key player for the team’s long-term success.

Reinbacher has faced challenges in his development, including a tough season in Kloten at age 18 and a serious injury during his time in Laval at 19. However, he is now poised to demonstrate his abilities at the Canadiens’ training camp, which has raised expectations among fans and management alike.

In an interview with Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic, Hughes stated, “We’re hoping David will have a full season behind him, and it’s up to him whether he starts in Laval or Montreal. But we took him fifth overall because we believe in what he can offer and we can’t wait to see him be an important part of the club.”

Performance Will Determine Reinbacher’s Starting Position

The phrase “Reinbacher decides” regarding his starting position underscores the importance of his on-ice performance during the upcoming camp. Hughes’ comments suggest that if Reinbacher earns a spot on the roster through his play, the Canadiens will be compelled to make room for him, in line with the general manager’s expectations.

Currently, seven defensemen, including Lane Hutson, Noah Dobson, Kaiden Guhle, Mike Matheson, Alexandre Carrier, Jayden Struble, and Arber Xhekaj, are in the running to start the NHL season. This competitive landscape presents a challenge for Reinbacher, as he will need to outperform established players to secure his place. If he replicates the strong performances he displayed in the playoffs with Laval, the Canadiens will have to adjust their lineup to accommodate him.

The upcoming training camp, which is set to begin shortly, will be a crucial period for Reinbacher. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see how he performs after a year of setbacks. His ability to capitalize on this opportunity could significantly impact the team’s defensive strategy moving forward.

Looking Ahead to the NHLPA Rookie Showcase

Reinbacher’s participation in the NHLPA Rookie Showcase has also generated buzz. This event provides young players a platform to showcase their talent in front of scouts and team executives. Reinbacher’s performance here could serve as an early indicator of his readiness for NHL competition.

As the Canadiens prepare for the new season, the focus will be on Reinbacher’s development and potential impact on the team. With Hughes’ faith in his abilities and a strong desire for Reinbacher to succeed, it will be intriguing to see how the situation unfolds in the coming weeks. The decisions made during training camp will not only shape Reinbacher’s future but could also play a significant role in the Canadiens’ overall strategy for the season.