CH Recalls Top Defensive Prospect David Reinbacher

Reinbacher set to make NHL debut as Canadiens deal with injuries on the blue line

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:21am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game, with players and the rink broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and shape, capturing the dynamic action of the sport.The Canadiens' defensive depth will be tested as they integrate top prospect David Reinbacher into the lineup amid injuries.NYC Today

The Montreal Canadiens are reportedly recalling top defensive prospect David Reinbacher from the AHL, with the 23-year-old Austrian defenseman expected to join the team for their upcoming game against the New York Islanders. The move comes as the Canadiens deal with injuries, including the status of defenseman Noah Dobson, who left the team's previous game against the Columbus Blue Jackets and did not return.

Why it matters

The Canadiens are fighting for playoff positioning in the final weeks of the season, and the addition of Reinbacher, their 2023 first-round draft pick, could provide a boost to their defensive corps as they navigate injuries. Reinbacher's NHL debut will also be an exciting moment for the organization and its fans as they get a first look at one of their top prospects.

The details

According to reports, Reinbacher is expected to be called up from the AHL's Laval Rocket to join the Canadiens for their game against the Islanders. The 23-year-old Austrian defenseman was the Canadiens' fifth overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft and has recorded 24 points in 57 games for Laval this season. With Dobson's status uncertain after leaving the previous game, the Canadiens will likely turn to Reinbacher to help shore up their blue line as they push for a playoff spot.

  • The Canadiens are scheduled to play the New York Islanders on April 13, 2026.
  • Dobson left the Canadiens' game against the Columbus Blue Jackets on April 12, 2026 and did not return.

The players

David Reinbacher

A 23-year-old Austrian defenseman who was the Canadiens' fifth overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. He has recorded 24 points in 57 games for the Laval Rocket in the AHL this season.

Noah Dobson

A defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens who left the team's game against the Columbus Blue Jackets on April 12, 2026 and did not return.

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What they’re saying

“Sources indicate David Reinbacher will be called up by the Montreal Canadiens after the game to join the team in New York.”

— Marco D'Amico, Reporter

What’s next

The Canadiens will evaluate Dobson's status ahead of their game against the Islanders, and if he is unable to play, Reinbacher will likely make his NHL debut.

The takeaway

The Canadiens' decision to recall their top defensive prospect, David Reinbacher, highlights the team's need to bolster their blue line as they push for a playoff spot. Reinbacher's NHL debut will be an exciting moment for the organization and its fans, and his performance could play a key role in the Canadiens' postseason aspirations.