In a stunning development that has sent ripples throughout the hockey world, Ivan Demidov, the highly-touted prospect picked fifth overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2024 NHL Draft, officially terminated his contract with SKA St. Petersburg of the KHL. The announcement came on a Tuesday, marking a significant shift for the 19-year-old forward and paving the way for his entry into the NHL. This timely decision positions Demidov to make an impact in the league, which is in the midst of a tightly contested playoff race.
Demidov’s Landing in Montreal
With the Canadiens clinging to the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, the timing couldn’t be better for Demidov’s arrival. Montreal is poised to make its first playoff appearance since the unexpected run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2021. While the team has just five regular-season games left, Demidov’s earlier performances abroad have been nothing short of spectacular. The excitement surrounding him stems not only from his achievements in the KHL — where he scored 19 goals and amassed 49 points over 65 games — but also from the assurance that he is eligible to play in the playoffs, as confirmed by his agent Dan Milstein.
A Joint Decision with SKA
The termination of Demidov’s contract was characterized as a “joint decision” by SKA, yet it seems to underscore the pragmatic approach taken by both parties. The KHL team has retained Demidov’s rights, stating that he would return if establishing himself in the NHL proves challenging. This duality serves as a safety net, reflecting the cautious nature of both sides as they navigate the unpredictable waters of professional hockey. Indeed, Demidov’s contract was initially set to expire later in 2025 — a timeframe that intersects with the peak intensity of the NHL playoffs.
An Emerging Star
Over the past season, Demidov has emerged as one of the most talented players not currently in the NHL. His dominance in the KHL’s elite league was evidenced by leading his team in playoff scoring, even as SKA faced elimination at the hands of Dynamo Moscow. Such success at a young age reinforces the tangible potential he brings to the Canadiens, particularly when considered against the backdrop of his draft stock. Despite slipping to the fifth pick due to concerns over his North American availability, his impressive performance has now erased many doubts.
A Historic Moment for NHL Scouting
An interesting subplot to Demidov’s signing is the visit from Canadiens executives, which marked a historic moment for NHL scouting. Amidst the geopolitical tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Canadiens’ decision to send their top brass to St. Petersburg reflects a bold commitment. This unprecedented visit underscores the franchise’s desire to secure the best talent, regardless of the risks involved.
The arrival of Ivan Demidov with the Montreal Canadiens not only reshapes the team’s immediate future but also sets a thrilling precedent in the landscape of NHL recruitment and international scouting. With playoffs on the horizon, all eyes will be on Demidov as he aims to make his mark in North America.