When we talk about the future of defensemen in the NHL, one name that consistently pops up in discussions is David Reinbacher. The 18-year-old Austrian has quickly become one of the most promising young defense prospects in the world. His mix of size, skill, and hockey IQ has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s best, and he’s widely considered to have the potential to develop into a top-pairing defenseman at the next level. But what exactly makes Reinbacher stand out as a future complete defenceman? Let’s dive into his game and break down why this young player has the makings of a truly well-rounded defenseman.
A Look at Reinbacher’s Early Career
David Reinbacher was born on November 25, 2004, in Dornbirn, Austria, and began playing hockey in his home country before making his way through the ranks in Europe. His early development came with his local team, EHC Alge Elastic Lustenau, but it was his move to Switzerland to play for HC Ambrì-Piotta’s U20 team that truly propelled him into the international spotlight. Playing in one of Europe’s most competitive junior leagues, Reinbacher quickly demonstrated that he had the potential to not only dominate in his own end but contribute offensively as well.
Reinbacher’s breakout year came during the 2022-23 season when he played for EHC Kloten in the Swiss National League (NL), which is considered one of the top professional leagues in Europe. Reinbacher stood out as one of the league’s top young players, impressing scouts with his maturity, poise, and all-around ability to contribute on both ends of the ice.
He took his talents to the 2023 NHL Draft, where he was selected 5th overall by the Montreal Canadiens. The Canadiens had been on the lookout for a right-handed, two-way defenseman who could become a cornerstone of their blue line, and Reinbacher fits that bill perfectly. His development as a complete defenseman was clear in his performances leading up to the draft, but it’s his continued growth that makes him so exciting for Canadiens fans and the broader hockey world.
Hockey IQ: The Foundation of a Complete Defenceman
Arguably the most important characteristic of a complete defenseman is their hockey IQ. Reinbacher displays exceptional awareness of the game at both ends of the ice. Defenders who can read plays as they develop and anticipate the next move are far more effective than those who simply react. Reinbacher’s ability to process the game quickly allows him to make smart decisions with the puck and stay one step ahead of his opponents.
Defensively, Reinbacher uses his hockey IQ to position himself effectively, break up plays, and shut down rushes before they even materialize. His anticipation of the opposition’s passing lanes and his understanding of when to close gaps or back off make him a reliable presence in his own zone. Even when under pressure, Reinbacher’s ability to remain calm and make the right decisions is a hallmark of his game.
Offensively, Reinbacher’s high hockey IQ comes into play as well. His ability to read the ice allows him to jump into the rush at the right moment or create space for his teammates. He knows when to take risks and when to play it safe, making him an effective power-play quarterback or a contributor on the transition game.
Skating: A Vital Element of Modern Defense
In the modern game, skating has become one of the most important attributes for defensemen. Gone are the days of defensemen who primarily relied on physicality and positioning to slow down the opposition. Today’s blue-liners must be able to skate efficiently, cover large areas of the ice, and keep up with faster forwards. Reinbacher possesses elite skating ability for a defenseman of his size. Standing at 6’2” and 207 pounds, he combines his physical presence with surprising speed and agility. His skating is fluid, and his quick first step allows him to close the gap on opposing forwards before they can gain the zone.
Reinbacher’s skating is not just about speed, though; it’s also about control. He can make sharp pivots, quick directional changes, and smooth transitions from forwards to backwards. This allows him to be a threat both defensively and offensively. He can carry the puck up the ice efficiently, and once in the offensive zone, he can navigate through traffic and maintain possession. His skating makes him effective in breakouts, where he can quickly move the puck out of his zone under pressure.
Two-Way Play: The Mark of a Complete Player
The definition of a “complete” defenseman is one who excels in all areas of the game: defending, transitioning, and contributing offensively. Reinbacher’s two-way play is one of his strongest assets. He doesn’t just rely on his physicality or his stickwork; he’s able to balance both ends of the ice, making him an all-around contributor.
Defensively, Reinbacher has shown great poise and physicality. While not the most aggressive player on the ice, he has a good understanding of when to use his body to separate the puck from opposing players. His ability to box out forwards in front of the net and disrupt plays in the corner is impressive for a player his age. He is also an excellent shot-blocker, positioning himself well to prevent high-danger chances from reaching his goaltender.
Offensively, Reinbacher is just as capable. He doesn’t have a “run-and-gun” style, but he possesses a very accurate and heavy shot from the point. His vision is sharp, and he’s able to make crisp breakout passes to create offensive opportunities. What sets him apart from many young defensemen is his decision-making. He knows when to join the rush and when to hang back and provide support. His maturity and confidence allow him to excel in both aspects without trying to do too much.
Physicality: Combining Size and Skill
While Reinbacher isn’t known for being an overly physical player, he certainly isn’t afraid to engage in contact when needed. He uses his size and strength to his advantage, especially along the boards and in front of his net. He’s capable of using his body to shield the puck or to win board battles against larger opponents. As he continues to mature, it’s likely that his physicality will become an even more pronounced part of his game.
Reinbacher also has a solid understanding of how to use his body to protect the puck when moving through the neutral zone or entering the offensive zone. His balance and strength allow him to absorb hits while maintaining control of the puck, a key trait for any defenseman who needs to escape pressure and transition play effectively.
Leadership and Work Ethic
In addition to his on-ice skills, Reinbacher’s leadership and work ethic are noteworthy. Having captained Austria’s U18 team and being a key player for Kloten in the Swiss NL, he has already demonstrated that he can be relied upon in pressure situations. He has a quiet, determined demeanor, often leading by example rather than through vocal leadership, but his teammates clearly respect him for his consistency and commitment to the game.
Reinbacher’s work ethic is reflected in his commitment to continuously improve. As with many young defensemen, his biggest challenge will be adjusting to the speed and size of the NHL, but he has shown the resilience and determination needed to succeed at the next level. His approach to training, his attention to detail, and his focus on constant development suggest that he’s willing to put in the work to reach his full potential.
The Future of David Reinbacher
David Reinbacher is the complete package when it comes to defensemen. He has the skating, the hockey IQ, the two-way ability, and the leadership qualities that could make him a key piece of the Montreal Canadiens’ defense core for years to come. As he continues to grow and refine his game, he’s poised to become a top-tier defenseman in the NHL—someone who can contribute at both ends of the ice while anchoring his team’s defensive play. With his strong foundation, Reinbacher has the makings of not just a solid defenseman, but a complete one, capable of thriving in every facet of the game. The future is certainly bright for this young blue-liner.
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