Montreal Canadiens prospect leaves North America weeks before training camp
Photo credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
The Montreal Canadiens have loaned forward Vinzenz Rohrer to EV Zug of the Swiss National League for the 2026-27 season, a move that surprised many after the 21-year-old had appeared on track to push for a roster spot in North America.
Rohrer signed a three-year contract with EV Zug, but because he remains under his entry-level deal with Montreal, the arrangement functions as a loan for this coming season.
A return clause is reportedly built into the deal, meaning Rohrer could rejoin the Canadiens organization if he earns an NHL roster spot before the Zug contract expires.
Why Montreal Made the Move
The financial gap likely played a role. Rohrer is expected to earn between 750,000 and 800,000 Swiss francs in Zug, more than 900,000 US dollars, compared to roughly 82,500 dollars had he played in the AHL with the Laval Rocket.
With his path to the Canadiens lineup looking crowded for now, both sides may have viewed a lucrative, high-level European season as the smarter development option.
For Montreal, the move means one less body in Laval's forward mix, but it does not close the door on Rohrer's NHL future.
The Canadiens can monitor his progress overseas while keeping his rights intact.
A Prospect Still Very Much in the Picture
Rohrer was drafted after winning a Swiss National League title with the ZSC Lions and impressing at the World Championship for Austria.
He also picked up AHL playoff experience with Laval last spring. Scouts continue to view him as a highly skilled, versatile forward with top-six upside.
While playing in Switzerland keeps him away from North American ice, it also puts him in a proven, competitive league.
If Rohrer continues developing at this level, a return to Montreal's lineup remains firmly on the table.
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AOUT 9|66 ANSWERS Montreal Canadiens prospect leaves North America weeks before training camp Do you believe Vinzenz Rohrer will ever play for the Montreal Canadiens? | ||
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