On Sunday the Habs began their last road trip of the season in New York against the Islanders. With Noah Dobson injured, it was David Reinbacher who got the call to go to Long Island. The result was a 4-1 win.
Here are some questions from the game.
Can we stop asking if Nick Suzuki is a 1C now?
He’s crossed the 100 point threshold while having a Selke-worthy season. Only the trolls are still wondering if he can really be a top-line centreman on a contending team.
How good has Slafkovsky become at using his body and reach to protect the puck? His assist on the Suzuki goal was beautiful.
Does anyone have a clue what the combos will be when the playoffs open?
I know who will be on the top line. Only a fool or an injury would separate Suzuki, Caufield and Slaf. I also have a feeling that St. Louis likes Newhook centering Demidov. That line needs a right shot who can forecheck, hold the zone, and play with speed, and I’m not sure that’s Kapanen right now. After that, the forward lines are a mystery.
The D group is no clearer. Based on one hockey stat card, I’d be very tempted to try Hutson and Reinbacher together in Game 82.
Is it possible the Habs misfortune will work in their favour?
What a first game for Reinbacher. Three games in three nights, and thrown into action with a D group that is half replacement players. Still he managed to play a safe and composed game, skated well and delivered good first passes, and added his first NHL point.
Not bad, Reino. Not bad.
Perhaps the Habs had always intended to give him a look in these last games. But the Dobson injury opened ice time for the rookie to show what he’s really got. Would management have protected him from that possibility if Dobson hadn’t gotten hurt? We’ll never know.
If the Canadiens can hold on in the playoffs until Dobson returns, it would really be something if Reinbacher has shown by then that he’s ready to stay and fall in behind Dobson on the right side.
The core is falling into place. The only question is how soon they will be ready to dominate.
Hab At Her 