David Reinbacher puts on a Montreal Canadiens jersey after being picked by the team during the first round of the NHL hockey draft Wednesday, June 28, 2023, in Nashville, Tenn. The Canadiens signed fifth-overall draft pick Reinbacher to a three-year, entry-level contract on Wednesday. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP/George Walker IV
MONTREAL – The Montreal Canadiens signed fifth-overall draft pick David Reinbacher to a three-year, entry-level contract on Wednesday.
The six-foot-two, 194-pound defenceman from Austria, had 22 points (three goals, 19 assists) in 46 games for EHC Kloten of Switzerland’s top professional league last season.
By going fifth overall, Reinbacher tied longtime NHL winger Thomas Vanek as the highest-drafted Austrian player of all time.
The signing comes after Reinbacher participated in the Canadiens development camp from Saturday through Tuesday.
Reinbacher said he plans to return to Montreal as early as possible ahead of rookie camp this fall.
The 18-year-old will likely play next season in Switzerland, however.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 5, 2023.
