Montreal Canadiens make decision on the future of most recent 1st round pick

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Josh Tupper
July 30, 2023 (10:27 PM)

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The Montreal Canadiens surprised a lot of fans when they made the decision to pick Austrian born defender, David Reinbacher with the fifth-overall pick. Several fans were surprised that the Canadiens decided to not select Matvei Michkov. Some fans allowed their frustration to boil over and Reinbacher was the target of some fan backlash online.

On draft night, Reinbacher stated he intends to return to Switzerland's National League for the 2023-24 season so he can finish school. That is if he's not on the Canadiens opening night roster.

According to a Swiss media outlet, it has been confirmed that Reinbacher will not play next season in the AHL. If the Canadiens don't feel Reinbacher is ready for the NHL, he won't be sent to the AHL and will be allowed to return home.

Reinbacher is eligible to play in both the American Hockey League or the Ontario Hockey League, but the Canadiens will NOT push their top pick to play in either of those leagues.

Protecting Reinbacher from the stresses of playing in Montreal will definitely be a huge part of his development. Rushing things for the young defender could definitely do more harm than good, especially in a hockey crazy market like Montreal.

Previously on HockeyUnplugged

Philadelphia Flyers top prospect who wouldn't sign with the team, explains why he didn't attend prospect camp

Bruins forward submits his arbitration ask; team counts with lowball offer

Jaromir Jagr manages to recruit longtime NHLer player to join his team

POLL
JUILLET 30 \| 41 ANSWERS Montreal Canadiens make decision on the future of most recent 1st round pick Where do you think David Reinbacher will be playing next season?
Montreal	12	29.3 %
EHC Kloten	22	53.7 %
See Results	7	17.1 %
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Montreal Canadiens make decision on the future of most recent 1st round pick

Where do you think David Reinbacher will be playing next season?