Most intriguing addition
The most interesting addition to the roster could come from within if David Reinbacher finds a spot among the top six defensemen. The 21-year-old, selected with the No. 5 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, made his NHL debut in 2025-26, playing the final two games of the regular season. Injuries have slowed Reinbacher’s development, including last season when he missed the first eight games with Laval of the American Hockey League because of a broken bone in his hand sustained during a Canadiens preseason game, but he recovered to have 24 points (five goals, 19 assists) and a plus-18 rating in 57 games. Reinbacher’s size (6-foot-3, 207 pounds), skating ability and hockey IQ are NHL caliber. An extended run of good health could be all that’s standing between him and a full-time role.
Biggest potential surprise
Owen Beck entered training camp as a dark horse candidate to make the NHL roster, but the 22-year-old forward could be ready to steal a spot. He’s played most of the past two seasons in the AHL, including 33 points (13 goals, 20 assists) in 58 games last season, and five points (three goals, two assists) in five Calder Cup Playoff games. He’s gotten a bit of time with the Canadiens with two points (one goal, one assist) in 28 total games. Beck might not have a big offensive upside at the NHL level, but his hockey sense stands out, and he’s versatile enough to play anywhere in the lineup and help both sides of special teams.