A Wild Season in the KHL
After an interesting season in the KHL, Ivan Demidov is joining the Montreal Canadiens. Benched multiple times by SKA St. Petersburg’s head coach Roman Rotenberg—reportedly for no real reason—it’s hard not to feel like something political or petty was at play. Rotenberg even refused to release Demidov to the Canadiens at the start of the season.
Despite the drama, Demidov broke the KHL record for most points in a season by a U20 player, notching 19 goals and 30 assists. What makes it even more impressive? He averaged just 13:14 of ice time per game—a low number compared to NHL starters.
Demidov Joins the Canadiens Sooner Than Expected
Most Canadiens fans weren’t expecting to see Demidov suit up in Montreal until next season. But with SKA St. Petersburg eliminated in the first round by Dynamo Msk, he’s here—and the timing couldn’t be better. His play style screams superstar, and it’s exactly what this young Habs core needs to elevate their game heading into the playoffs.
What Makes Demidov Special?
There’s a lot of excitement around Ivan Demidov joining the Montreal Canadiens this late in the season. Demidov’s puck control is out of this world. The way he glides around defenders and seamlessly steps through traffic is going to be fascinating to watch in an NHL setting. It’s honestly hard to believe four players went ahead of him in the draft.
He’s a dynamic skater, has a top-tier shot, and is strong as hell on his skates. You don’t often get a mix like that in someone this young.
Will Demidov Debut for the Canadiens Tonight Against Chicago?
He was expected to make his debut tonight against the Chicago Blackhawks, but after checking the projected lineup, he’s not on it. THIS COULD CHANGE FROM THE TIME I UPLOAD THIS. That’s a missed opportunity, if you ask me. Chicago is one of two teams still under the 70-point mark—it would’ve been the perfect confidence booster. A win tonight would also clinch a playoff spot for Montreal. Just imagine the momentum that could bring to a young guy like Demidov.
Where Does Ivan Demidov Fit in the Canadiens Lineup?
The only real spot for him right now looks like the second line. The first line has been firing on all cylinders, and the Dvorak-Anderson line is holding its own too. But burying a player like Demidov on the fourth line just isn’t an option—he’s too skilled for that.
I see him slotting in as a winger on Line 2 with Alex Newhook and Patrick Laine. That trio could be dangerous. Demidov’s creativity and vision would give that line the boost it needs to generate more scoring chances and finish them too.
And here’s a fun little extra: Demidov’s spot in the locker room is going to be directly beside team captain Nick Suzuki. You can’t help but love that — putting him next to your leader sets the tone right away.
The Montreal Canadiens’ Youth Surge Is Insane
Speaking of young guns, Montreal is absolutely stacked right now. Lane Hutson has shattered expectations with 6 goals and 58 assists in 80 games, leading all NHL rookies in points. He was rookie of the month in December, broke the Canadiens record for longest point streak by a rookie defenseman, and surpassed Chris Chelios for fastest Habs D-man to 50 points.
Watching him play has been nothing but pure joy for a longtime Habs fan like myself.
Also, side note: Olivier Kapanen already wears #91, so it’ll be fun to see what number Demidov chooses.
What the Experts Are Saying about Demidov
In a recent 32 Thoughts podcast, Elliotte Friedman shared some insight on Demidov:
“Everyone I know who’s seen him play says he’s a stud. You’re going to have to put him in a position where he can score—you’re not going to bury him on the fourth line. There’s no question the kid’s a talent, and who doesn’t want to see this? It’s an unbelievable time of year to show up, right before the playoffs.”
Hard to disagree with that.
See It for Yourself
If you haven’t already, check out this Top 20 Ivan Demidov Highlight Reel by Maiette Sports Media on YouTube:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1ZeJHFD2QU&t=16s
What Do You Think?
Fans are wondering what kind of impact Ivan Demidov Montreal Canadiens will have heading into the playoffs.
Do you think Ivan Demidov is going to make an immediate impact on the Canadiens?
Why or why not?
Let me know in the comments below — and don’t forget to share this post with a fellow Habs fan if you’re just as hyped as I am.
GO HABS GO
Absolutely! Hoping for a big W tonight. Thanks for the support!
Wow, that Demidove is amasing, a superstar already……..