Montreal Canadiens’ Ivan Demidov Makes Highly Anticipated NHL Debut

MONTREAL — Ivan Demidov, the fifth overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, is set to make his NHL debut with the Montreal Canadiens against the Chicago Blackhawks Monday night. The 19-year-old forward signed an entry-level contract with the Canadiens on April 8 and practiced alongside teammates Alex Newhook and Joel Armia prior to the game.

Demidov’s arrival comes at a critical time for the Canadiens, who hold a narrow three-point lead over the Columbus Blue Jackets for the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. This win is vital for the Canadiens as they seek to secure a playoff berth for the first time since 2021.

“It’s exciting,” Newhook said about playing alongside Demidov. “He’s a guy who’s got a lot of skill coming into our lineup. We’re just looking for him to play his game. It’s his first game, but it’s a big stage.”

Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis emphasized the importance of Demidov’s integration into the team during this pivotal moment. “Biggest game of the season,” he remarked. “I feel it was important for us to feel Demidov with the group and for Demidov to feel the group too.”

Demidov recently concluded a successful season with SKA Saint Petersburg in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), leading the team to 49 points (19 goals, 30 assists) in 65 games, which set a new KHL record for under-20 players. His performance included five points (three goals, two assists) in six playoff games before the team was eliminated from competition.

“We’re thrilled to have him here,” general manager Kent Hughes said. “It gives us an opportunity to finish off strong with two games left in an 82-game season. Credit to the coaches and players for getting themselves into this position.”

Coming into this crucial matchup, the Canadiens (39-31-10) know they need a victory against the struggling Blackhawks (23-46-11) to fend off the pressing Blue Jackets. If Montreal secures a win, they will clinch a playoff spot and face the Washington Capitals in the first round.

Demidov’s signing came as a surprise, as he was previously expected to join the Canadiens next season. However, he was released from SKA earlier than anticipated, allowing for the possibility of an earlier transition. This move had been facilitated by a prior relationship between Hughes, the team’s scouts, and SKA’s management.

“Two things changed: they were eliminated earlier than expected, and we have a chance to make the playoffs,” Hughes stated regarding Demidov’s early signing.

During morning skate, Demidov was seen taking line rushes in preparation for the game and is expected to contribute to the second power-play unit. His reputation as a skilled and creative player has generated significant excitement among Canadiens fans.

“He’s going to adjust to a different game of hockey here,” Hughes said, emphasizing the adaptation Demidov will face as he transitions to the NHL level. assistant Martin St. Louis believes that Demidov brings an element of creativity, skill, and deception to the ice, which could significantly bolster the Canadiens’ chances of success.