A Legacy of Talent and Tenacity
Sam Reinhart, the youngest of the hockey-playing Reinhart brothers, has emerged as a standout player, both with the Stanley Cup-champion Florida Panthers and Team Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off. His journey, however, began much earlier, as a highly anticipated young talent drafted by the Buffalo Sabres. Watching his father, Paul Reinhart, on ESPN Classic is a nostalgic experience for Sam. While he admires his dad’s skating style, crisp passing, and play-reading abilities, it’s the iconic mustache that catches his eye. At 19, Sam may not have managed that mustache, but his skills and hockey IQ have placed him at the forefront of the sport.
The Reinhart Brothers: A Family of Athletes
The Reinhart family is a blend of athletic prowess and multifaceted talents. Sam’s older brothers, Griffin and Max, have also carved out their paths in the world of hockey. Griffin, drafted fourth overall by the New York Islanders, is a physical, shutdown defenseman with the potential to anchor the Islanders’ defense. Max, a center drafted by the Calgary Flames, is working tirelessly to solidify his place in the NHL. Despite their varied career trajectories, the brothers share a deep bond, rooted in their shared love for the game. They grew up playing a variety of sports, including hockey, soccer, tennis, and even golf, thanks to their athletic-minded upbringing in West Vancouver. Their parents, Paul and Theresa, encouraged a well-rounded approach to sports, fostering a competitive yet supportive environment.
The Influence of Max
Max Reinhart, the eldest, played a pivotal role in shaping his younger brothers’ careers. Unlike many second-generation NHLers, the Reinhart boys did not grow up in the hockey world. Paul retired early due to a back injury, and by the time his sons were born, he had hung up his skates. Max, therefore, became the primary influence, leading by example and creating a path for his brothers to follow. "Max enabled his younger brothers to be equals," Paul said. "They looked up to him, but he never looked down on them." This brotherly camaraderie and mutual respect have been key to their success. Griffin and Sam naturally followed in Max’s footsteps, each carving out their unique paths while drawing inspiration from their older sibling.
The Path to the NHL
Sam, Griffin, and Max have each had a taste of the NHL, but none has yet established a permanent presence. Sam, the most hyped of the trio, spent his early days with the Buffalo Sabres before returning to the Western Hockey League’s Kootenay Ice to hone his skills. Griffin, a defenseman, has appeared in a few NHL games with the Islanders, while Max has had brief stints with the Calgary Flames. Despite their varying levels of success, the brothers remain determined to make their mark in the league. Sam, in particular, is viewed as a top-10 scorer in the making, with his playmaking abilities and on-ice IQ setting him apart.
The Challenges Ahead
The journey to the NHL is fraught with challenges, and the Reinhart brothers have faced their fair share. Max, the eldest, has grappled with the realities of cracking an NHL lineup, experiencing the highs and lows of minor league play. Griffin, though highly touted, must prove himself as a key defender for a team transitioning to a new market in Brooklyn. Sam, the youngest, is on the cusp of stardom, but he knows the transition from junior to the NHL is a significant leap. "The pace is what’s different," Sam said. "You have to learn to do everything faster, to feel comfortable with the game at that speed." The brothers keep in constant contact, supporting each other through the ups and downs of their careers. Their mutual respect and shared goals have only strengthened their bond.
Looking Forward
The Reinhart brothers are a testament to the power of family and perseverance. Despite the challenges they face, they remain united in their quest for NHL success. Sam, with his promising future in Buffalo, Griffin, a key piece in the Islanders’ renaissance, and Max, striving to solidify his place in Calgary, each have the potential to carve out their niche in the league. Their father, Paul, remains a proud and supportive figure, believing in their abilities and the opportunities that lie ahead. While they may not have yet achieved their ultimate goal, the Reinhart brothers are poised to make a significant impact on the hockey world, continuing the legacy of their mustachioed patriarch.
