David Reinbacher returned earlier than expected when he made his season debut Wednesday night for the Laval Rocket. The Rocket squared off with the Manitoba Moose, losing 5-4 in a high-scoring affair. Reinbacher had no points and was a -2 in the loss, but the lack of production and struggles to keep the puck out of his net isn't the Canadiens' biggest concern. The main thing in Montreal is that Reinbacher maximizes his development this season with as many games as possible.
It doesn't look like head coach Pascal Vincent or Reinbacher are too concerned about the early results. A significant knee injury means it'll take him some time to get back up to speed, but he will undoubtedly be a big part of the team once he gets settled back in.
Vincent gave a glowing review of Reinbacher's game in the post-game press conference, which should give fans some hope that he and the young defenseman are a perfect match. Vincent may not have had much success in his first NHL stint with the Columbus Blue Jackets, but he is back home in Laval as a player development specialist in the American Hockey League. Vincent could eventually get another NHL opportunity, but developing prospects is his bread and butter.
""I thought he was our best defenceman in the first half of the game. He was really good. His reads, killing plays, first pass, his ability to anticipate what was happening in front of him. I'm very impressed with him.""Pascal Vincent
Vincent wasn't the only one who was happy about Reinbacher's return to the lineup. The media also got some time to talk to the man himself, and he was excited about the potential of the rest of the season in Laval. He seems content with his role in the AHL, and this is the best spot for his development.
""I feel pretty good. I got a lot of trust from the coaches, that was really nice. I tried to give it back. I pretty good. It was a good pace.""David Reinbacher
Will Reinbacher spend the rest of the season in Laval or will he get some time in Montreal? That much remains to be seen, but one thing is certain due to Montreal's place in the standings: If the Laval Rocket makes a Calder Cup run, Reinbacher will be front and center.