What Happened
The Montreal Canadiens announced Saturday that defenceman David Reinbacher and centre Oliver Kapanen will make their season debuts against the Buffalo Sabres. Reinbacher was recalled from the AHL's Laval Rocket before Wednesday's game against Washington but did not appear. Kapanen has been sidelined with a lower-body injury since the start of the season. Reinbacher takes Adam Engstrom's spot in the lineup, while Kapanen replaces Owen Beck.
Key Details
- Reinbacher, 21, was the fifth-overall pick in 2023 and had one assist in two NHL games last season.
- He is set to be paired with Arber Xhekaj.
- Kapanen, 23, recorded 22 goals and 37 points in 82 games last season.
- Mike Matheson missed Tuesday's game with a day-to-day lower-body injury.
- Jacob Fowler will start in net against Buffalo.
What It Means
Montreal gets two young players into the lineup at once. Reinbacher, a recent top-five pick, adds a look on the blue line while Matheson is day-to-day. Kapanen returns after a productive 82-game season in which he scored 22 goals, giving the forward group a familiar option back from injury.
What's Next
Both players are expected to remain in the lineup as Montreal continues its schedule. Matheson's status remains day-to-day, which could affect how long Reinbacher stays with the club.