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Prospect Info: David Reinbacher - Get Well Soon Edition

badfish said:
I wonder if he does a conditioning stint / short stint in Laval and then joins Montreal. Kaiden Guhle was pretty injured after he was drafted and only played 47 games in his two years post draft. Started in the NHL and exceeded immediately. Reinbacher is in his D+2 but he was drafted at 18, he's already the same age as Guhle was when he was a rookie.
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He will probably play the remainder of the year in Laval unless there's an injury or he plays so lights out down there that they need to bring him up.
 
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The Gr8 Dane said:
I'm really not a fan of everybody slotting him in at the end of the year in the NHL or even next year personally...........maybe it's just me.

I think he needs to play some more hockey before burdening him with being put on the big club at 20


Im hate yoyoing guys , Reinbacher has already had to go through a little adversity not sure I want him being called up and then down and whatever if he struggles like we do all the time with prospects lol , it takes a toll on their mental , let them simmer , what is there to lose, Unless he completely blows everybody away with his play but do we really expect that so soon? I don't
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Fans are looking for and wanting immediate short term solutions to better our chances. I get it but you are right that is not happening. The odds of HuGo making a significant trade at this point are slim and none is knocking on the door. Reinbacher will get minutes where he needs to get minutes. Once again the long term benefit is what will take precedence. If like Hutson it is determined that Reinbacher will develop better in the NHL I'm not one to argue. So much depends on where we end up in early March. If we are out of it I can see the core being satisfied with the steps we have taken and not get down if we play future prospects.
We didn't draft these guys to play in Laval and evaluating them in the NHL is very important for next season.
 
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Today, I asked DeepSeek (R1) to assess David Reinbacher 's potential. I've been testing the AI in various ways to see how it can do. What do you guys think?

How good of a hockey player should we expect David Reinbacher (drafted 5th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2023) to be in a few years time? What will be his strengths and weaknesses?

First response, the "thought for ten seconds"
Okay, the user is asking about David Reinbacher's potential as a hockey player, specifically his strengths and weaknesses in a few years. They want to know what to expect from him since he was drafted 5th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2023.

First, I need to recall who David Reinbacher is. He's a defenseman from Austria, right? Drafted high, so expectations are naturally high. But since he's a recent draft pick, maybe there's not a ton of NHL experience yet. So I should focus on his pre-draft performance, his play in leagues like the Swiss National League, and scouting reports.

Strengths: I remember reading that he's known for his defensive reliability. Good skating for a defenseman, which is crucial in today's NHL. Maybe his hockey IQ, positioning, and ability to transition the puck. Also, his size and physicality could be assets.

Weaknesses: Probably needs to work on offensive production. Maybe his shot or power play contributions. Also, adjusting to the NHL speed and physicality, even if he's played against men in Switzerland. Sometimes young defensemen take time to adapt.

I should check some scouting reports or analysis from reputable sources to back this up. Maybe look at his stats in the Swiss league. How many points did he have? Any playoff performance? Also, consider the typical development curve for defensemen. They often take longer to develop compared to forwards, so maybe mention that he might need a couple of years to reach his potential.

Also, the Canadiens' development system could play a role. How have they handled young defensemen in the past? If they have a good track record, that might help Reinbacher's growth.

User might be a Canadiens fan looking for hope or a fantasy hockey player evaluating prospects. Either way, they want a realistic projection. Avoid overhyping but acknowledge his high draft position indicates significant potential.

I should structure the answer around his strengths, weaknesses, and a projection. Maybe compare him to current NHL players with similar styles. Also, mention factors that could affect his development, like injuries, coaching, and opportunities for ice time.

Need to make sure the information is up-to-date. Since he was drafted in 2023, any recent performance in the 2023-2024 season? If he's already playing in the AHL or NHL, that would be relevant. Otherwise, focus on his draft year analysis.

Also, consider that European defensemen sometimes face challenges transitioning to the North American rink size. That could be a point in weaknesses or areas to develop.

Finally, wrap it up with a balanced view, highlighting that while he has the tools to be a top-4 defenseman, there are variables that could influence his trajectory. Be cautious but optimistic based on his draft position and scouting consensus.

Second response from the AI, I don't know why it comes in two components.

David Reinbacher, drafted 5th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2023, is a highly touted right-shot defenseman with the potential to develop into a reliable top-4 NHL blueliner. While projecting young players is inherently uncertain, here’s an evidence-based analysis of his trajectory, strengths, and weaknesses:

Projected Ceiling (Next 3–5 Years)​

Reinbacher is widely seen as a safe bet to become a steady, two-way defenseman with top-pairing upside if his development accelerates. Scouts often compare him to players like Alex Pietrangelo or Jeff Petry—mobile, intelligent defenders who contribute at both ends. His floor is likely a middle-pairing shutdown specialist, but his toolkit suggests he could grow into a 20–30 point defenseman who logs 20+ minutes per game.

Strengths​

  1. Defensive IQ and Positioning
    • Elite awareness in his own zone: anticipates plays, angles attackers effectively, and uses his stick to disrupt passing lanes.
    • Strong gap control and rarely caught out of position, even against faster opponents.
  2. Skating and Mobility
    • Smooth, efficient stride for a 6'2" defenseman; transitions well from defense to offense.
    • Recovers quickly when backtracking, critical for defending modern rush-heavy systems.
  3. Physicality and Compete Level
    • Uses his size (200+ lbs) to win board battles and clear the crease. Not overly aggressive, but assertive in 1-on-1 situations.
    • High motor: consistently engaged and willing to block shots.
  4. Transition Game
    • Excellent first-pass ability; excels at breaking the puck out under pressure.
    • Poised with the puck in traffic, minimizing turnovers.
  5. Maturity and Adaptability
    • Played against men in the Swiss National League (NL) as a teenager, showcasing his ability to handle physicality and pro systems.

Weaknesses/Areas for Growth​

  1. Offensive Upside
    • Lacks elite creativity or dynamic puck skills to quarterback a power play. His shot is decent but not a major weapon.
    • Production in the NL (22 points in 46 games in 2022–23) was solid for a teen defenseman but not eye-popping.
  2. Risk-Averse Play
    • Sometimes prioritizes safe plays over high-reward opportunities, which could limit his offensive ceiling.
  3. Adjusting to NHL Pace
    • While he thrived in Switzerland, the NHL’s speed and smaller ice surface will test his decision-making early in his career.
  4. Physical Development
    • Adding strength (particularly in his lower body) will help him handle bigger NHL forwards in net-front battles.

Key Factors Influencing His Development​

  • Coaching and Usage: Montreal’s development staff must balance sheltering him defensively while encouraging offensive confidence.
  • Power Play Opportunities: If he can refine his shot and vision, he could grow into a secondary PP contributor.
  • Partner Chemistry: Pairing him with a mobile, offensive-minded defenseman (e.g., Lane Hutson) could maximize his two-way game.

Realistic Expectations​

  • Short Term (2024–2026): Likely starts on the third pairing, gradually earning trust in defensive-zone situations and penalty killing.
  • Prime (2027+): Projects as a top-4 cornerstone who stabilizes the defense, chips in 25–35 points annually, and logs tough minutes against opposing stars. His value will lie in consistency rather than flash.

Bottom Line​

Reinbacher’s combination of size, skating, and defensive polish makes him one of the safer picks in the 2023 draft. While he may never become a true #1 franchise defenseman, he has all the tools to be a long-term pillar for Montreal—a player who "does the little things right" and thrives in playoff-style hockey. His development curve will hinge on how well the Canadiens nurture his offensive instincts without sacrificing his defensive reliability.
 
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DAChampion said:
Today, I asked DeepSeek (R1) to assess David Reinbacher 's potential. I've been testing the AI in various ways to see how it can do. What do you guys think?

How good of a hockey player should we expect David Reinbacher (drafted 5th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2023) to be in a few years time? What will be his strengths and weaknesses?

First response, the "thought for ten seconds"
Okay, the user is asking about David Reinbacher's potential as a hockey player, specifically his strengths and weaknesses in a few years. They want to know what to expect from him since he was drafted 5th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2023.

First, I need to recall who David Reinbacher is. He's a defenseman from Austria, right? Drafted high, so expectations are naturally high. But since he's a recent draft pick, maybe there's not a ton of NHL experience yet. So I should focus on his pre-draft performance, his play in leagues like the Swiss National League, and scouting reports.

Strengths: I remember reading that he's known for his defensive reliability. Good skating for a defenseman, which is crucial in today's NHL. Maybe his hockey IQ, positioning, and ability to transition the puck. Also, his size and physicality could be assets.

Weaknesses: Probably needs to work on offensive production. Maybe his shot or power play contributions. Also, adjusting to the NHL speed and physicality, even if he's played against men in Switzerland. Sometimes young defensemen take time to adapt.

I should check some scouting reports or analysis from reputable sources to back this up. Maybe look at his stats in the Swiss league. How many points did he have? Any playoff performance? Also, consider the typical development curve for defensemen. They often take longer to develop compared to forwards, so maybe mention that he might need a couple of years to reach his potential.

Also, the Canadiens' development system could play a role. How have they handled young defensemen in the past? If they have a good track record, that might help Reinbacher's growth.

User might be a Canadiens fan looking for hope or a fantasy hockey player evaluating prospects. Either way, they want a realistic projection. Avoid overhyping but acknowledge his high draft position indicates significant potential.

I should structure the answer around his strengths, weaknesses, and a projection. Maybe compare him to current NHL players with similar styles. Also, mention factors that could affect his development, like injuries, coaching, and opportunities for ice time.

Need to make sure the information is up-to-date. Since he was drafted in 2023, any recent performance in the 2023-2024 season? If he's already playing in the AHL or NHL, that would be relevant. Otherwise, focus on his draft year analysis.

Also, consider that European defensemen sometimes face challenges transitioning to the North American rink size. That could be a point in weaknesses or areas to develop.

Finally, wrap it up with a balanced view, highlighting that while he has the tools to be a top-4 defenseman, there are variables that could influence his trajectory. Be cautious but optimistic based on his draft position and scouting consensus.

Second response from the AI, I don't know why it comes in two components.

David Reinbacher, drafted 5th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2023, is a highly touted right-shot defenseman with the potential to develop into a reliable top-4 NHL blueliner. While projecting young players is inherently uncertain, here’s an evidence-based analysis of his trajectory, strengths, and weaknesses:

Projected Ceiling (Next 3–5 Years)​

Reinbacher is widely seen as a safe bet to become a steady, two-way defenseman with top-pairing upside if his development accelerates. Scouts often compare him to players like Alex Pietrangelo or Jeff Petry—mobile, intelligent defenders who contribute at both ends. His floor is likely a middle-pairing shutdown specialist, but his toolkit suggests he could grow into a 20–30 point defenseman who logs 20+ minutes per game.

Strengths​

  1. Defensive IQ and Positioning
    • Elite awareness in his own zone: anticipates plays, angles attackers effectively, and uses his stick to disrupt passing lanes.
    • Strong gap control and rarely caught out of position, even against faster opponents.
  2. Skating and Mobility
    • Smooth, efficient stride for a 6'2" defenseman; transitions well from defense to offense.
    • Recovers quickly when backtracking, critical for defending modern rush-heavy systems.
  3. Physicality and Compete Level
    • Uses his size (200+ lbs) to win board battles and clear the crease. Not overly aggressive, but assertive in 1-on-1 situations.
    • High motor: consistently engaged and willing to block shots.
  4. Transition Game
    • Excellent first-pass ability; excels at breaking the puck out under pressure.
    • Poised with the puck in traffic, minimizing turnovers.
  5. Maturity and Adaptability
    • Played against men in the Swiss National League (NL) as a teenager, showcasing his ability to handle physicality and pro systems.

Weaknesses/Areas for Growth​

  1. Offensive Upside
    • Lacks elite creativity or dynamic puck skills to quarterback a power play. His shot is decent but not a major weapon.
    • Production in the NL (22 points in 46 games in 2022–23) was solid for a teen defenseman but not eye-popping.
  2. Risk-Averse Play
    • Sometimes prioritizes safe plays over high-reward opportunities, which could limit his offensive ceiling.
  3. Adjusting to NHL Pace
    • While he thrived in Switzerland, the NHL’s speed and smaller ice surface will test his decision-making early in his career.
  4. Physical Development
    • Adding strength (particularly in his lower body) will help him handle bigger NHL forwards in net-front battles.

Key Factors Influencing His Development​

  • Coaching and Usage: Montreal’s development staff must balance sheltering him defensively while encouraging offensive confidence.
  • Power Play Opportunities: If he can refine his shot and vision, he could grow into a secondary PP contributor.
  • Partner Chemistry: Pairing him with a mobile, offensive-minded defenseman (e.g., Lane Hutson) could maximize his two-way game.

Realistic Expectations​

  • Short Term (2024–2026): Likely starts on the third pairing, gradually earning trust in defensive-zone situations and penalty killing.
  • Prime (2027+): Projects as a top-4 cornerstone who stabilizes the defense, chips in 25–35 points annually, and logs tough minutes against opposing stars. His value will lie in consistency rather than flash.

Bottom Line​

Reinbacher’s combination of size, skating, and defensive polish makes him one of the safer picks in the 2023 draft. While he may never become a true #1 franchise defenseman, he has all the tools to be a long-term pillar for Montreal—a player who "does the little things right" and thrives in playoff-style hockey. His development curve will hinge on how well the Canadiens nurture his offensive instincts without sacrificing his defensive reliability.
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Damn bro even your AI is giving the Petry comparison
 
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sampollock said:
he was going to play there even at the start of this season... I bet before getting hurt
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It was nice to see our man games lost reduced last season but we did have a Dach derail. That set him back and he's only starting to regain form over the last 2+ weeks.

This season, we got hit with Laine and Reinbacher at the beginning of the season. Sucks because he could have earned a spot.

Here is a question: Did Reinbacher's RFA years kick in this year because he was 20 in October? Or does that start next year? I know you need to play 40 NHL games but there is a age start clock too and I believe it's age 20. What does a October 25th Birthdate do for this?
 
DAChampion said:
I saw that, well done !

What did you think of the rest?
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I think it's a fair assessment, I wonder if it read HF haha

I think in determining accuracy it's tricky because as you have mentioned, there are thousands of comments and articles out there from people who have barely watched him play, and are just repeating what others have said or what they expect from a defender with his size/stats.

In this case you are actually going a step further because you are guaranteeing that the AI making the report has never watched him play - but at least it is an aggregate of all opinions and not just one person
 
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Yesterday, Reinbacher practiced with the Canadiens in a no-contact jersey at the CN Sports Complex. For the first time since his knee injury during the preseason.

Today, Reinbacher also practiced with the Canadiens in a no-contact jersey at the CN Sports Complex.
 
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I asked a follow up question.

Based on this assessment, what do you estimate is the probabaility of each of Reinbacher becoming: 1) an all-star, 2) a Norris candidate, 3) a Norris winner, and 4) a hall-of-famer?

Assigning probabilities to future achievements in sports is inherently speculative, but based on Reinbacher’s profile, development trajectory, and historical comparables (e.g., Alex Pietrangelo, Jeff Petry, Jaccob Slavin), here’s a reasoned estimate:

1. NHL All-Star (1+ selections)​

Probability: 30–40%

  • Why: All-Star selections often reward reputation, team success, and short-term excellence. Reinbacher’s two-way reliability and potential to log heavy minutes in a major market (Montreal) could earn him a nod if he becomes a top-pairing staple.
  • Caveat: Defensive defensemen are underrepresented in All-Star games unless they post strong offensive numbers (e.g., 40+ points). His offensive ceiling may cap his chances.

2. Norris Trophy Candidate (Top 10 in voting)​

Probability: 15–25%

  • Why: Norris voting heavily favors offensive production (historically, 70% of winners are 50+ point players). Reinbacher’s defensive IQ and transition game could earn him votes in weaker years, but unless he develops into a 45–55 point player with elite possession metrics (e.g., Cale Makar-lite), he’ll struggle to crack the top 10 consistently.
  • Comparables: Jaccob Slavin (career-high Norris finish: 6th in 2022) is a best-case scenario.

3. Norris Trophy Winner​

Probability: 5–15%

  • Why: Only 12 defensemen have won the Norris since 2000, and all were either elite offensive drivers (Makar, Erik Karlsson) or dominant two-way forces (Victor Hedman, Drew Doughty). Reinbacher’s conservative offensive style makes this unlikely unless he dramatically improves his shot creation and power-play impact.
  • Path to Victory: A Marc-Édouard Vlasic-like defensive peak combined with a 50-point season in a weak Norris field.

4. Hockey Hall of Fame​

Probability: 5–10%

  • Why: The Hall of Fame prioritizes longevity, awards, and team success. Even Pietrangelo (2x Cup winner, 1x All-Star, 900+ games) isn’t a lock. Reinbacher would need:
    • A 1,000+ game career with consistent top-pairing play.
    • Multiple All-Star selections or a Norris win.
    • Team success (e.g., Stanley Cup runs as a key contributor).
  • Caveat: Defensive stalwarts like Slavin or Vlasic face an uphill battle for induction without eye-catching stats or hardware.

Key Variables That Could Shift These Odds​

  • Offensive Development: If he evolves into a 50-point defenseman (unlikely but not impossible), his Norris/HOF odds rise.
  • Team Context: Playing alongside Lane Hutson (elite offensive partner) or anchoring a Cup-winning defense could amplify his reputation.
  • Health and Longevity: Avoiding major injuries is critical for accumulating Hall of Fame credentials.

Final Take​

Reinbacher’s most probable outcome is a high-end #2/3 defenseman with All-Star appearances in strong seasons. His floor is a dependable top-4 stalwart, while his ceiling—with optimal development—is a Pietrangelo-esque career with fringe Hall of Fame consideration. The Habs drafted him for stability, not stardom, but in hockey, surprises happen.
 
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Andrei79 said:
Interesting to see Renaud Lavoie raving about Reinbacher. Was very impressed by his performance at practice and said that it's "scary" how good he is.
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Renaud Lavoie is a fanboy without any credibility. With that said, I still believe Reinbacher will end up as our #2 or #3 defenceman at worst...
 
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