Hockey

David Reinbacher: Rocket wishes he could have used him every night after injury
Marc-Olivier Cook
David Reinbacher: Rocket wishes he could have used him every night after injury
Credit: Getty Images

When David Reinbacher returned from his serious injury last season, he didn't play every night. And the reason was simple: the Canadiens wanted to take their time with him, so that he could get back into the swing of things. But that's not because Laval didn't want him to play. Far from it… Daniel Jacob, on Patrik Bexell's podcast (Habsent Minded), said it out loud: the Rocket would have liked to have him in the line-up every night.The Rocket would have liked to be able to count on him every game.And hearing that, it's easy to understand: the CH had a clear, precise plan for his rehabilitation. And in a way, that's normal… because we know that the organization cares (a lot) about him.Montreal management didn't want to risk anything, which isn't surprising.

Daniel Jacob touched on another interesting topic in the podcast and I think it's relevant to talk about. This summer… the Habs wanted to see Reinbacher improve in one specific area (as is the case with many other youngsters): they wanted him to work on his physical strength in the gym. The Canadiens liked the idea of seeing the defenseman get bigger, stronger, faster… and maybe that's what it takes for him to one day be a talented NHL defenseman who can keep up and hold his own against the league's players. Remember that Reinbacher says he's 100% ready for next season, and that's good news too.

The defender hasn't had it easy in the last two years… but if he can start the campaign strong, if he can play to develop – whether in Montreal or Laval – it will help him in his progression. And that's what's important right now.

'Overtime'

– Price for me. You?

– No surprise there.

– Will they be able to punch their ticket to the playoffs?

– Bravo!

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