Canadiens Recall David Reinbacher

According to a team announcement, the Montreal Canadiens have recalled defenseman David Reinbacher from the AHL’s Laval Rocket. Montreal had an open spot on the active roster, so no corresponding roster move was required.

After trading defenseman Jayden Struble to the Nashville Predators last Friday, the Canadiens filled his spot by activating Kaiden Guhle from the injured reserve. Still, Montreal again needs defensive reinforcements.

The Canadiens were without veteran blue liner Mike Matheson in their victory over the Buffalo Sabres last night. Montreal announced that Matheson is only projected to miss a few days, but with a game against the Washington Capitals tonight, there’s no guarantee Matheson will return to the lineup.

Montreal selected Reinbacher, 21, with the fifth overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. He spent one more season on loan with the NL’s ECH Kloten before joining the organization full-time ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.

Unfortunately, injuries have negatively impacted Reinbacher’s development. Knee surgery limited him to 10 games in his rookie AHL campaign. Still, Reinbacher returned for the 2025 Calder Cup playoffs, where he registered two goals and six points in 13 games.

Fortunately, Reinbacher got nearly a full season under his belt last year. He performed well, showing that his development hasn’t stalled, finishing with five goals and 24 points in 57 games with a +18 rating. Furthermore, Reinbacher appeared in two games for the Canadiens, registering one assist.

This season, Reinbacher has gotten off to another quality start with AHL Laval. The Hohenems, Austria, native has registered two assists in his first four games of the season.