Saturday night’s preseason game for the Montreal Canadiens was a rough one. News emerged on Sunday that Habs defensive prospect David Reinbacher is injured and out for five to six months. The young defenceman underwent surgery on his left knee Tuesday morning according to team officials.
Le défenseur David Reinbacher a été opéré au genou gauche ce matin. Sa période de réadaptation est évaluée à cinq à six mois.
Defenseman David Reinbacher underwent surgery to his left knee this morning. His rehabilitation period is expected to be from 5 to 6 months. pic.twitter.com/tzgyhkgXeR
— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) October 1, 2024
David Reinbacher Injured and Out Long-Term
The Austrian defenceman left after only four seconds into the first period of Saturday’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Reinbacher got hurt after a hit by Marshall Rifai and fell awkwardly. The 19-year-old appeared to twist his left knee. He left the game and never returned.
Montreal drafted Reinbacher fifth overall in the 2023 NHL Draft. He had been playing with the Laval Rocket of AHL last season. The Hohenems, Austria scored twice and posted five points in games last season with the Rocket. He spent the three previous seasons with Swiss club Kloten HC before heading over the North America.
Saturday night was a rough night for the Canadiens as Patrik Laine suffered a knee injury. Laine came over in a trade from the Columbus Blue Jackets in the off-season. There was hope he’d give the Habs some scoring pop, but he faces a tough road back.
What It Means
Reinbacher was looking to challenge for a roster spot on a young Montreal defence. The Austrian has a big frame at 6-foot, 3-inches and 209 pounds. However, his came is more than being just a big body. He came over from Europe with plenty of things to like about his game.
The Canadiens have a glut of young defenders looking to make the roster. Montreal General Manager Kent Hughes has been trying to clear the way to give these young defenders NHL game time.
The Habs were hoping to take a step forward this season. However, that step up the Atlantic Division standings may be hindered due to the Reinbacher and Laine injuries. The early part of the 2024-25 season may be a rough one for Montreal.
Main photo by: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
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