Vinzenz Rohrer has stepped away from Martin St-Louis' NHL orbit, choosing EV Zug over another season with the Laval Rocket.
The Montreal Canadiens prospect is returning to Switzerland on a reported three-season contract, changing the expected path of his development.
Rohrer had been viewed as a strong candidate to remain in North America after getting his first taste of professional hockey with Laval.
Instead, the young forward will cross the Atlantic and continue his career in the Swiss league, where he should receive a larger role.
The decision doesn't close the door on Montreal. Rohrer can still pursue an NHL opportunity if he earns a place on the Canadiens' roster.
-
But it removes him from the organization's daily environment, away from Laval's coaching staff, facilities and direct development structure.
Rohrer takes a different route to Montreal
His Rocket stay ended after only 6 appearances. Rohrer played 1 regular-season game before dressing for 5 playoff contests.
That brief sample created optimism because he was already competing against older, stronger players on a smaller North American ice surface.
Many expected Laval to become his next full-time stop. A complete American Hockey League season could have tested his defensive details, physical play and ability to produce through a demanding schedule.
EV Zug offers a different opportunity. Rohrer should have a clearer path to meaningful minutes, offensive touches and special-teams work in a familiar setting.
The concern is whether returning home delays his adjustment to the pace and pressure he'll face while trying to earn an NHL job.
Montreal's front office will now have less control over his deployment. Every line assignment, healthy scratch and special-teams decision will be made with EV Zug's priorities in mind.
Rohrer's choice also increases the importance of his next international performances and training camps. He'll need to show that his game is still moving toward NHL standards.
This isn't the route Canadiens fans expected, but it doesn't have to end his NHL push. Rohrer has simply chosen a longer, less direct road back to Montreal.
Did Vinzenz Rohrer make the wrong development choice?
Also read on Markerzone.com:
Vancouver Canucks GM Ryan Johnson sends Elias Pettersson to Eastern Conference in three-team trade proposal
