Worrying Development for David Reinbacher: the Fifth Overall Pick Has Had Ice Time Significantly Cut
David Reinbacher, selected high in the last draft, has garnered significant interest despite currently playing in Europe, with passionate fans closely following his performances.
With the Kloten team in Switzerland, the Austrian defenseman had a slow start to the season, taking some time to find his rhythm. This uneven start was further complicated by an injury in November that sidelined him for several weeks.
As the team struggled, the organization decided to fire coach Gerry Flemming, who had been highly regarded by the Canadiens' management for fostering the development of their young talent.
Kloten's general manager, Larry Mitchell, took over the team and made a significant change regarding Reinbacher. He reduced Reinbacher's ice time by nearly four minutes per game, a noticeable decrease.
However, according to prospect expert Grant McCagg, this reduction in ice time could be beneficial for the 5th overall pick in the last draft. Reinbacher has even scored three points in his last four games.
"Kloten's new coach has reduced Reinbacher's ice time by about 4 minutes per game. Today, he got his third assist in the last four games. Maybe they were overworking him by playing him 21 minutes or more per game. He's a teenager who is still developing his strength and endurance. A smart move." - Grant McCagg
McCagg points out that 19-year-old Reinbacher is still in a development phase. Although he is showing good performances on the ice lately, he still needs to gain experience, and the reduction in his ice time is likely beneficial for his progression.
An average ice time of 17 to 18 minutes seems adequate for a young player to continue progressing in a balanced way.
By managing his energy better, especially on the larger European rinks compared to those in North America, Reinbacher could have a more significant impact in each game appearance.
As the season progresses, it's possible that Reinbacher will better master his game in each match, offering him more opportunities in the offensive zone. Being closely watched by scouts, if he can develop this aspect of his game, he will undoubtedly become a key element in the Canadiens' rebuild.
| POLL |
19 DECEMBRE | 487 ANSWERS Worrying Development for David Reinbacher: the Fifth Overall Pick Has Had Ice Time Significantly Cut Was David Reinbacher the right pick at 5th overall? |
| No - Matvei Michkov | 150 | 30.8 % |
| No - Zach Benson | 49 | 10.1 % |
| No - Other | 71 | 14.6 % |
| Yes | 217 | 44.6 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
Latest 10 stories
