Kent Hughes has been methodical since the beginning of his tenure as general manager for the Montreal Canadiens.
No matter the blow, Hughes takes it in stride, never appearing too bothered or too excited. He has the ultimate poker face and keeps his cards close to his chest. So, when David Reinbacher went down with an injury, Hughes already had a plan in place to keep him close to the team.
The best way for Reinbacher to develop is through game action, skating and getting in reps. That isn't possible with his injury, and that can be dejecting for any player, but especially one with high hopes to crack the Canadiens roster. Fortunately, Hughes will ensure Reinbacher is closeby the team for his rehab, just like Kirby Dach was.
Kent Hughes on how the Habs plan to keep David Reinbacher involved with the team while he rehabilitates from his knee injury.
— /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) October 2, 2024
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The physical aspect of rehab will no doubt be tough, but the most difficult part has got to be the mental part of it. Not being able to compete and train the way that you are accustomed to while having to sit on the sidelines is a bitter pill. But with the Habs defensive coach Stephane Robidas working with Reinbacher, Hughes is confident that he will continue moving in the right direction.
NHL calibre coaches will make a difference
The benefit that Reinbacher is afforded this year, but wasn't last year is that he will be coached by the best in the world. With EHC Kloten, he dealt with a carousel of coaches, and for a young player having the consistency should be a huge upgrade for him. With coaches focused on developing and getting the players to the top level they can reach, Reinbacher will have all the support he needs.
For the rebuilding Canadiens, this is the first time in their storied history that the team has undergone a complete rebuild. The pressure is on Hughes and Jeff Gorton to get the right pieces to build a contender. However, the coaching staff has the responsibility of getting each player to perform, and they are in their positions because they are trusted to do so.
Having said that, the team has been moving forward and there is no reason to doubt what the staff has been doing.