Did the Habs Get Another Gem from 2022 Draft?

The Austrian forward has been turning heads with his speed and skill during recent on-ice summer practices at the Complex CN in Brossard. The fact that he is showing so much speed shouldn’t be that shocking for those who saw him compete at the World Championships in May with Austria. During that tournament, he was one of the best players for Austria, being a regular nuisance for his opponents on the penalty kill. Teams needed to game plan against his killer speed to prevent him from breaking in all alone with the goaltender. During that tournament, he was tied with Detroit Red Wings forward Marco Kasper for the most goals by an Austrian with 4 goals in 8 games.

Following the tournament, Rohrer signed his Entry-level contract, much like prospect Oliver Kapanen did a summer prior. Just like Kapanen, Rohrer has the clause in his contract to return to his team in Europe if he doesn’t make the NHL. Unfortunately, unlike Kapanen last year, there isn’t a spot up for grabs as of yet for Rohrer to take. If injuries occur, there could be openings, but it’s unlikely Rohrer will be the guy to get the chance based on the current pecking order. Therefore, we should expect Rohrer to return for the season under his contract with the Zurich Lions of the Swiss National League. Last season, Rohrer showed his goal-scoring prowess with 15 goals and 25 points in 52 games. The numbers may not stick out, but Rohrer plays in a league where veterans get much more ice time than the young guys.

Despite his chances being extremely low of making the Canadiens out of camp, Rohrer has looked really good in the scrimmages that the Habs players are currently running in Brossard. What he does best is use his speed to transition from defense to offense so flawlessly. He seems particularly skilled at cutting passes as a 2-way winger. It wouldn’t be surprising if Rohrer manages to eventually become a bottom-six winger as a penalty kill specialist. Watching him move, it always seems like he’s a step ahead of the attacking player on defense. Rohrer has a lot of speed, so there is the possibility he could carve out a similar career to Paul Byron as a forward on the smaller side himself at 5’10 and 161 LBS.

Given that the Habs have many forwards in their prospect pool that have bottom-six potential, it will be hard for Rohrer to make the NHL full-time with the Habs someday. However, his speed and defensive awareness could help him gain an edge on some others if they need a speedy 2-way winger in the future. I do believe Rohrer would only be on the team if there is no Alex Newhook around, although I do believe the Austrian could have the edge defensively on the current Habs player if he continues to progress. It will be interesting to see if Rohrer can eventually be an NHLer.

What are your thoughts on Vinzenz Rohrer?