Every season brings fresh opportunities for young players to step onto NHL ice for the first time. For the Montreal Canadiens, 2025-26 could be another season where their strong prospect pipeline produces reinforcements. While the core of the roster is young and improving, injuries, roster turnover, and performance swings often create chances for new faces. Among the many names in Laval and abroad, three players stand out as strong candidates to play their first NHL games this season: David Reinbacher, Adam Engström, and Florian Xhekaj.
David Reinbacher
When the Canadiens drafted Reinbacher fifth overall in 2023, they envisioned a steady, right-shot defender who could anchor the blue line for the long term. Two years later, despite some injury setbacks, Reinbacher is closer than ever to making that vision a reality.
The 6-foot-3 Austrian brings a calm, reliable presence in his own end, something the Canadiens could use if injuries strike their defence corps. Montreal already relies heavily on Lane Hutson, Kaiden Guhle, and Noah Dobson, but depth can evaporate quickly across an 82-game schedule. Reinbacher is arguably the first defenceman in line for a recall if one or two regulars go down.
What makes him NHL-ready isn’t flashy offence, but rather his maturity and defensive poise. He keeps plays simple, moves the puck efficiently, and is strong enough to handle board battles against seasoned pros. Coaches value players who can be trusted in defensive situations, and Reinbacher’s profile suggests he could earn minutes on the penalty kill or in late-game defensive shifts.
A debut this season would not only give him a taste of the NHL but also begin his transition into being a cornerstone piece of Montreal’s defence for the next decade.
Adam Engström
If Reinbacher is the obvious choice, Engström is the underrated one. Drafted in the third round in 2022, the Swedish defenceman has quietly improved every year. His skating and puck-moving ability fit the mold of the modern NHL defenceman.
With Logan Mailloux dealt in the summer, more responsibility in Laval will fall to Engström. He’s expected to play heavy minutes, including power play time, giving him a chance to showcase his offensive instincts. He isn’t as physically imposing as Reinbacher, but his smooth skating and decision-making could complement Montreal’s defence if he earns a short recall.
Engström doesn’t have the same spotlight as some of Montreal’s higher draft picks, but every year he edges closer to being NHL-ready. If he shines in Laval, he could play his first NHL game in 2025-26.
Florian Xhekaj
While Reinbacher and Engström bolster the defence, forward Xhekaj is a different story. Known for his grit and tenacity, much like his brother Arber, Florian has worked hard to round out his game in Laval. After a solid rookie pro season in 2024-25, he looks poised to be one of the Rockets’ most reliable forwards this season.
The Canadiens’ bottom-six forward group is relatively set, but injuries and roster shuffling are constants. Xhekaj’s style of play makes him an appealing recall option: he brings size, relentless forechecking, and a willingness to battle in tough areas. Montreal has emphasized speed and pressure as part of its identity, and Xhekaj fits that mold perfectly.
He likely won’t be relied upon to score much at the NHL level, but his physical presence and energy could make him a valuable addition when the Habs need a spark. Even a handful of games would be a major step in his development and could set the stage for a more permanent role in the future.
Related: 4 Canadiens Prospects Who Can Surprise This Season
The Canadiens’ depth chart is healthier than it has been in years, which means breaking into the lineup is no easy task. Still, opportunity always comes, whether through injuries, trades, or simple experimentation. Reinbacher, Engström, and Xhekaj are three names fans should watch closely.
Reinbacher is the most likely debut, given his pedigree and role as a defensive anchor of the future. Engström is the sleeper, a versatile puck-mover who could quietly impress if given a chance. And Xhekaj is the wildcard, a high-energy forward who could force his way into a game or two when the Canadiens need grit and intensity.
Whether they play one game or 20, these debuts would mark another step in the Canadiens’ rebuild and a glimpse into the next wave of talent set to wear the CH.
