Montreal Canadiens fans, here's an update on your future star Ivan Demidov and his situation with SKA in the KHL.
The 2024 5th overall pick might be joining the Canadiens next season if circumstances align favorably.
If St. Petersburg decides not to retain Demidov with their KHL team, the Canadiens could negotiate a transfer fee similar to what the Flyers arranged for Matvei Michkov. Michkov, the No. 7 pick from last year's draft, is set to join the Flyers next season. If the Canadiens secure a transfer fee from St. Petersburg, Demidov might also make his NHL debut next season.
Demidov experienced a turbulent season, missing half of it due to three injuries. Despite these setbacks, he ended up second in the scoring race with 60 points in just 30 games. In the playoffs, Demidov stepped up with 28 points in 17 games. Though he missed the Kharlamov Cup-winning game, he was present on crutches for the celebration.
TVA Sports' Nicholas Cloutier on July 15th: «Ivan Demidov is not at the SKA development camp today because he is still recovering from an injury, his agent Dan Milstein confirms to me.»
Day 9 of SKA dev. camp, still no sign of Ivan Demidov, so assuming he's still injured.
Another day, another remarkable Ivan Demidov hype video
Demidov is projected to play a key role in the Habs' return to Stanley Cup contention in the coming years. Therefore, his potential early move to the NHL could accelerate his development.