The Montreal Canadiens are buzzing with the prospect of adding stellar talent to their roster as they eye Ivan Demidov, the team's top prospect who is currently playing for SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL. Drafted fifth overall by the Canadiens during the 2024 NHL Draft, Demidov has quickly garnered attention for his outstanding performance, which includes scoring 19 goals and providing 30 assists for 49 points over 63 games this season.
Recently, former NHL star Ilya Kovalchuk showed his support for Demidov, emphasizing his capabilities and work ethic. "He’s already standing out in the KHL, and I’m confident he’ll do well in Montreal," Kovalchuk remarked during his interview with RG.org. He went on to highlight the young winger's passion for hockey, stating, "He’s bright, hardworking, and truly passionate about the game." Such high praise from someone with Kovalchuk’s pedigree certainly adds weight to the discussions surrounding Demidov.
Despite his potential, the transition to the NHL will not be without its challenges. Kovalchuk offered some sage advice for Demidov's future endeavors, particularly the importance of adapting to Montreal's intense hockey culture. “He needs to be ready for the reality of playing in a city where hockey is like a religion,” Kovalchuk explained. “Every move he makes will be monitored by management and the media. The key is to not be shy and speak their language; it makes all the difference.”
According to well-known NHL analyst Elliotte Friedman, there is optimism within the Canadiens organization about bringing Demidov to Montreal. On his podcast, "32 Thoughts," Friedman articulated, "It sure seems like the Montreal Canadiens are hopeful it’s gonna work out. They’ve done everything they can to facilitate this move. I know several people who’ve gone to watch him play this year, and they say he’s an absolute stud. He is as good as advertised!"
Demidov’s prowess on the ice is not the only aspect contributing to the Canadiens' interest. The Canadiens see him as pivotal to their future as they chase playoff positioning this season. Should he join them, the Canadiens hope to get the added edge required for competing effectively. Past experiences suggest this might not be wishful thinking; for example, Vladislav Gavrikov joined the Blue Jackets from SKA St. Petersburg under similar circumstances back in 2019.
While the likelihood of acquiring Demidov might be considered slim, the Canadiens are committed to exploring every avenue for potential collaboration with SKA St. Petersburg, especially as Demidov’s contract is valid only until May 31, 2025. If they can persuade SKA to agree to mutually terminate his contract, it could lead to Demidov suiting up for the Canadiens this season. It’s been noted within hockey circles how beneficial such early integration might be for both the player and the franchise.
The excitement around Demidov isn't just based on speculation; his current statistics speak volumes about his capabilities as he expects to become the next Russian star for the Canadiens. With 49 points achieved this season, he has also represented his country at the international level, helping clinch gold at the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. His accolades include being named MVP of the Channel One Cup tournament with the senior national team, which has only bolstered confidence on his potential to succeed.
Fans and analysts alike are waiting with bated breath for what is to come. If Demidov were to make it to Montreal shortly after the end of his KHL season, it could signal not just the arrival of another skilled player but also the ushering of newfound hope for the organization. Much weighs on the Canadiens as they continue their bid for playoff contention—a space made more hopeful by the thought of such promising talent potentially joining their ranks.
The clock continues to tick down on Demidov’s season with SKA St. Petersburg, and as each game concludes, Canadians eagerly anticipate the news of Demidov’s fate. The stakes are high as he stands poised for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to prove himself on one of the NHL’s biggest stages, with the history and cultural weight of the Montreal Canadiens resting on his young shoulders.
