David Reinbacher shines on NHL debut

David Reinbacher's time came on Sunday night. The Montreal Canadiens called the defenceman up from their AHL farm team, Rocket Laval, to the NHL. Reinbacher was on the ice for 11:17 minutes in the 4:1 away win over the New York Islanders and assisted Alex Newhook's 3:0 goal. “Everyone has their own path, and you can simply enjoy each and every day,” said the NHL debutant.

16 April 20261 min read

On Sunday morning, the Canadiens officially announced that David Reinbacher would join the squad in place of the injured Noah Dobson. Reinbacher had recorded 24 points for Rocket Laval this season – 5 goals and 19 assists. In his NHL debut, the 21-year-old was immediately able to celebrate a win and his first point in the world's strongest ice hockey league.

Naturally, the defenceman was in demand among the media, telling them: “It feels like a dream. It was a tough road to get here. I enjoy every moment even more, especially because of what has happened.” Reinbacher was referring to the injuries he has suffered in the past, after being selected fifth overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2023.

Commenting on the game itself, the defenceman said: “It is faster than in the AHL, the guys know exactly where they need to be and what they have to do. To be here now and play these minutes was simply great. My teammates have helped me a lot and I enjoy every day.”

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