The Montreal Canadiens have wasted little time and signed 2023 first-round pick David Reinbacher to a three-year, entry-level contract at $950,000 per year.
The Canadiens have agreed to terms on a three-year, entry-level contract (2023-24 to 2025-26) with defenseman David Reinbacher.#GoHabsGohttps://t.co/mDWDY0JG7P
— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) July 5, 2023
David Reinbacher Signs Entry-Level Contract with Montreal
When the Montreal Canadiens had their opportunity to announce their top selection in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, they chose the 6′ 2″, 195 lbs. Austrian defenceman David Reinbacher. Now they have moved quickly to sign him to a three-year, entry-level deal. Reinbacher played for Kloten HC in the Swiss National League last year and put up three goals and 19 assists in 46 games. He also played for Austria in the 2022 and 2023 IIHF World Junior Championships.
While some were surprised to see Montreal take Reinbacher at fifth overall, Reinbacher has shown that he has the potential to be a solid two-way defenceman. Last Word on Hockey prospect expert Kyle Pereira provided that Reinbacher is a defenceman who, while not flashy, is a great defensive defenceman and good in transition. Pereira’s NHL stylistic comparison for Reinbacher looks at Colton Parayko.
Looking Forward
David Reinbacher gives Montreal a high-end defensive prospect in their system. He could very well see NHL ice sooner rather than later. He could become a compliment piece to other Canadiens defensive prospect Lane Hutson. While nothing is guaranteed with prospects, the Canadiens have options for Reinbacher’s development.
Coming from Switzerland versus the CHL, he could come over and play in the AHL since the CHL/AHL restrictions do not apply and the Swiss league has a player transfer agreement with the NHL. Reinbacher could also player another year in Europe where he has developed fairly well so far. Or, if he stands out, he could suit up for the Canadiens. Regardless, Reinbacher should be an interesting prospect to watch down the road.
Main Photo Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
