Vinzenz Rohrer’s next move has put his NHL future under a cloud, and it’s not hard to see why the reaction has been so sharp.
The Canadiens prospect has agreed to a three-year deal with EV Zug in Switzerland, choosing that route over the American Hockey League. For some observers, that’s a bold step. For others, it’s a mistake that could come back to haunt him.
Jordan Decker believes the decision could cost Rohrer his chance at an NHL career.
If a young forward turns down the AHL and opts to spend three seasons in Switzerland instead, it naturally raises questions about how he plans to get to North America. Leaving an organization’s system also means losing the day-to-day contact with its coaches and development staff, which is a big part of how prospects are groomed.
The AHL exists as a direct path to the NHL, and Rohrer may be walking away from that runway before he ever gets the chance to use it.
At the same time, the move isn’t without upside. Switzerland’s top league is strong, and Rohrer should have the chance to play big minutes in a major role while continuing to develop. That said, it’s still a gamble.
Rohrer is under contract with EV Zug for the next three seasons unless he manages to win a spot on the Canadiens’ roster. For a young player drafted by an NHL team, that’s a pretty unusual choice - and one that has already sparked plenty of debate about whether he’s hurting his own path to Montreal.
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