In the world of hockey, few prospects have garnered as much attention as Ivan Demidov, the Montreal Canadiens' highly-touted forward. As the playoffs unfold in the KHL, Demidov's journey has become a focal point for Canadiens fans and management alike, especially given the recent developments surrounding his performance and contract situation.
Demidov's season has been a rollercoaster, with his treatment under SKA St. Petersburg head coach Roman Rotenberg coming under scrutiny. In the first playoff game, Demidov barely saw any ice time, a decision that left many questioning the coach's judgment. However, in a surprising turn of events, Demidov was promoted to a higher role in the lineup for the second game, a move that proved pivotal.
On March 29, 2025, in a game against Dynamo Moscow, Demidov finally showcased his skills, scoring his first playoff goal. This impressive tally came just after the halfway point of the opening period, a moment that highlighted his potential and ability to perform under pressure. Daria Tuboltseva, a notable hockey journalist, tweeted about Demidov's achievement, emphasizing his status as a top prospect for the Canadiens.
In that game, Demidov's ice time increased significantly to 17:36, allowing him to demonstrate his creativity and skill on the ice. He recorded five shots, a roughing penalty, and one hit, contributing to SKA's efforts despite their second consecutive loss in the playoffs. Fans and analysts alike noted that with more ice time, Demidov was able to create a flurry of scoring chances, further solidifying his importance to the team.
As the playoffs progressed, Demidov's role continued to evolve. He started on the first line and had his best first period in a long time, fully engaged and skating well. His performance in the playoffs raised questions about his future, especially with rumors swirling about his potential move to the NHL. Many believe he could play a significant role on the Canadiens' power play unit, potentially increasing their production significantly.
However, the plot thickened when it was announced that Demidov had signed a two-year contract extension with SKA, keeping him with the team until the end of the 2026-27 season. This decision surprised many, as it seemed to contradict his earlier intentions to make the leap to the NHL next season. Critics argue that remaining in the KHL may hinder his development, especially given the supportive environment the Canadiens offer young players.
Demidov was selected 5th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, and his performance in the KHL has been closely monitored by Canadiens fans eager for his eventual arrival in Montreal. The prospect of Demidov playing alongside established NHL stars like Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki is exciting, but for now, fans will have to continue following his progress in the KHL.
In addition to Demidov's situation, the Canadiens have been making headlines for their playoff push. Following a crucial 4-2 victory over the Florida Panthers on March 30, 2025, the Canadiens are back in contention for the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference. With a favorable schedule ahead, they cannot afford to leave any points on the table, especially with teams like the New York Rangers and Columbus Blue Jackets vying for the same position.
Meanwhile, the Canadiens' goaltending situation has also been a topic of interest. Top prospect Jacob Fowler is expected to sign a contract after Boston College's recent loss, raising questions about whether he will join the Canadiens or the Laval Rocket for the Calder Cup playoffs. Former Canadiens player Vincent Damphousse expressed confidence in Fowler's ability to perform under pressure, suggesting that he should start as soon as he signs.
As the Canadiens navigate their playoff journey, they are also dealing with off-ice issues. Nikko Mikkola was fined $5,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct during the game against the Panthers, a decision that has sparked discussions about player discipline and accountability.
Back to Demidov, his recent success in the KHL has been a silver lining for Canadiens fans, who are eager to see how he develops over the next couple of years. While his extension with SKA raises concerns about his long-term growth, it also presents an opportunity for him to refine his skills in a competitive environment.
As the playoffs continue, all eyes will be on Demidov and his performance with SKA. Canadiens fans are hopeful that he can elevate his game to match the expectations set by his NHL draft status. The excitement surrounding his potential arrival in Montreal is palpable, and many believe that once he transitions to the NHL, he will make an immediate impact.
In conclusion, Ivan Demidov's journey is a testament to the unpredictable nature of sports. With a mix of challenges and opportunities ahead, both he and the Canadiens are poised for an intriguing future. As the playoffs unfold, the hockey world will be watching closely, anticipating what comes next for this promising young talent.
