In a development that sent shockwaves across the NHL and electrified the fanbase in Montreal, Canadiens Head Coach Martin St. Louis made a jaw-dropping announcement about star right wing Ivan Demidov during a Monday morning press conference. The revelation instantly lit up social media, filled sports bars with cheers, and reignited hope in a city that breathes hockey.
“Today, I want to share something with the fans that speaks to our future and our belief in this young man,” St. Louis said as he addressed reporters at the Bell Centre. “Ivan Demidov will be joining our roster for the 2025-26 NHL season — and not just joining. He’s expected to start the year on our first line.”
The announcement, which had not been hinted at by the team or media insiders, sparked immediate reactions online and across hockey circles. Demidov, the Canadiens’ highly touted 2024 first-round draft pick (5th overall), had been playing in the KHL with SKA St. Petersburg, with expectations that he might not make the jump to North America until 2026.
From Russia to the NHL — Sooner Than Expected
Demidov, 19, has dazzled scouts and analysts with his elite vision, offensive creativity, and dynamic skating. Last season in the KHL, he tallied 48 points in 52 games — an impressive mark for a teenager in one of the world’s toughest professional leagues. Many believed the Canadiens would take a cautious approach with his development.
But according to St. Louis, the team was blown away during recent off-season evaluations and development camps.
“His maturity, his work ethic, and his passion — they’re already at an NHL level,” said St. Louis. “We had long discussions with management, the training staff, and Ivan himself. We all came to the same conclusion: He’s ready. And he’s hungry.”
A City Rejoices
As news of the announcement spread, Montreal erupted in celebration. Fans flooded social media with posts under hashtags like #DemidovDebut, #NextHabsStar, and #SaintLouisSurprise.
“I can’t believe it — we finally have our guy,” said longtime Canadiens fan Julien Mercier, who watched the press conference live from downtown. “This kid is the most exciting prospect we’ve had since Carey Price or even Saku Koivu. I’m getting chills just thinking about him on the ice at the Bell Centre.”
Local sports bars reported crowds forming within hours to toast to the young phenom’s NHL arrival. A downtown mural of Canadiens legends even saw fans taping a printed photo of Demidov beneath it, with “Future Hall of Famer?” scribbled underneath.
A Potential Franchise-Changer
General Manager Kent Hughes also weighed in later in the day, praising Demidov’s drive and poise.
“When we drafted Ivan, we knew we were getting an extraordinary talent. But the progress he’s shown in just one year has surpassed even our highest hopes,” Hughes said. “We’re not rushing him — he’s earned this.”
For a franchise seeking to build around youth and skill after years of rebuilding, Demidov’s early NHL entry represents a huge leap forward. With names like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovský, and now Demidov, the Canadiens’ top six could soon rival the best in the league.
Demidov Responds with Humility and Fire
Demidov himself joined the press conference via live video from Russia, where he was preparing to travel to North America in the coming weeks.
“This is a dream come true,” he said in English, a language he’s been studying intensively. “I want to give everything I have to this team, to the fans, and to this city. I’m not here to just play — I want to win.”
The young winger thanked the Canadiens for their trust and added, “I know the expectations in Montreal are high — and I’m ready.”
Martin St. Louis’ Vision
The announcement is also a bold reflection of Head Coach Martin St. Louis’ philosophy: trust in young talent and allow players to express themselves creatively on the ice.
St. Louis, himself an undrafted player who rose to Hall of Fame status through grit and skill, sees a similar spark in Demidov.
“I see the game in Ivan that I saw in myself — but at 19 years old,” St. Louis said. “That’s rare. And that’s why we’re not waiting.”
What Comes Next
Demidov is expected to arrive in Montreal within the next two weeks to begin training and adjust to the team’s systems. He will wear jersey number 91 and will likely skate alongside captain Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield on the top line during preseason.
Season ticket sales, already trending upward, saw a spike following the announcement.
For a franchise seeking a return to greatness, this could be the turning point.
One thing is certain: Ivan Demidov has arrived — and Habs Nation couldn’t be louder.
