Two new players added to the Canadiens as early as tonight? We just learned that Reinbacher could be free by Friday
For some time now, we've mentioned that David Reinbacher will be available to play in Laval soon. Today, we have a better idea of what's next regarding the Habs' first pick in the last draft.
Indeed, as Marc Dumont reminds us, the #7 game between Olten (Reinbacher's team) and the GCK Lions will take place Friday afternoon.
If Olten is defeated, the young defenseman can join the Rocket now as the Swiss team would not have to participate in the relegation match. In case of a victory, Olten would play a 4 out of 7 series in the Swiss league's grand finale.
In addition to Reinbacher, the Rocket could also soon count on another defenseman, less known to fans, in Adam Engstrom. According to what Arpon Basu reports in a recent article for The Athletic, Habs management holds him in high regard and would like to see what he can do in North American hockey. That's why the 3rd round pick (92nd overall) from the 2022 draft is expected to sign an entry-level NHL contract with the club soon.
Recently, journalist Mathias Brunet compared Engstrom and Mattias Norlinder, who both played in the same league. You will see that, in the end, there is no comparison to be made as Engstrom is much more complete and offensive than the current Rocket defenseman!
In 51 games this season in the Swedish league, Engstrom accumulated 4 goals and 18 assists for a total of 22 points. The 6-foot, 168-pound left-handed defenseman, who is also nicknamed Showtime due to his puck-handling skills, will see his contract with his European team end at the end of this campaign. He will therefore be able to line up with the CH (or its farm team) as soon as his season is over. His team, Rogle BK Angelholm, started their playoffs this Thursday, March 14.
Laval would thus have two new defensemen in its lineup (Reinbacher and Engstrom) for the end of the season. A significant help as the farm team struggles to qualify for the spring tournament. As of today, the Rocket is ranked 6th in the North division, with 60 points, one point behind the Toronto Marlies and the last playoff spot.
| POLL | ||
Where would you have David Reinbacher play to finish the season? | ||
| Nowhere for him to rest | 24 | 3.8 % |
| Montreal (NHL) | 162 | 25.6 % |
| Laval (AHL) | 448 | 70.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
