The Head of News Department at RG.org, Sergey Demidov (no relation with you know who), spoke to the Montreal Canadiens’ fifth-overall pick Ivan Demidov about a variety of subjects which are sure to interest Habs fans. Montreal Hockey Now’s Marco D’Amico shared the story this morning on his X account.
For those who were still holding out hope to see Demidov in a Canadiens’ uniform this season, it’s time to let it go. The youngster told the Russian journalist that his goal right now was simply to have a good season. Since he was hampered by injuries last season and missed the end of the playoffs, it makes sense for the forward to be focussed on getting back in game shape and performing to the best of his abilities.
Demidov also confirmed his coach Roman Rotenberg has spoken to the Canadiens about his development plan. The 18-year-old is set to play in the Kontinental Hockey League this season, but should he not get a roster spot, the Canadiens may negotiate a loan. The future member of the Sainte-Flanelle is also keeping in touch with the team, the Habs brass is understandably interested to know how he’s doing and how his injury is healing.
Demidov doesn’t believe he’s at full strength yet, having just resumed working on the ice, but he expects to be back in tip top shape in about a week. For him, the way to ease his transition to the NHL is to work on his speed and his lower-body strength, no skipping leg days for the prized prospect this season (not that he did in the past in any case, aside from when his leg was injured of course).
Related: More on Montreal Canadiens Prospect Ivan Demidov
Former first-overall pick Juraj Slafkovsky has texted the future Canadiens star to congratulate him on being drafted and ask about his health, but also to say he looks forward to Demidov joining the team. Judging by the buzz his drafting has generated in town, it’s safe to say the Montreal first-liner echoed the sentiment of many. Demidov memorabilia is already starting to be sold on this side of the pond and a signed puck retails at $199.99. That’s even higher than Slafkovsky’s items did post draft in 2022, collectors better start saving up now.
This coming season, Demidov will be able to learn from former NHLer Evgeny Kuznetsov who recently signed a four-year contract with SKA after his brand new deal with the Carolina Hurricanes was terminated. He will also be another strong player Demidov will have to compete with, but he’s clearly eager to beneficiate from his experience.
Something tells me there will never have been so much interest in KHL action in Montreal, perhaps it’s time for the local sports network to look into a broadcasting deal.
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Canadiens: Ivan Demidov Back in Action
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