In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the NHL and Montreal Canadiens fanbase, former head coach Ivan Demidov has released a scathing report criticizing the team’s internal culture, management practices, and handling of player development—prompting a visibly shaken response from current Canadiens manager Martin St. Louis.
Demidov, who briefly served as an advisor and interim coach within the Canadiens system during the team’s transitional period in 2021–22, alleges in the report that there is a persistent lack of transparency, fractured communication between leadership and players, and a “toxic undercurrent” that is hampering Montreal’s ability to rebuild effectively.
“I was shocked,” St. Louis said during a hastily arranged press conference at the Bell Centre. “I don’t agree with the picture being painted, and I take this personally—not because it’s an attack on me, but because of what it says about our players, our staff, and the identity we’ve been trying to build here.”
Explosive Allegations in the Report
The report, published by a major European sports outlet and later verified by North American insiders, details Demidov’s experience behind the scenes during his tenure with the organization. While he praises the Canadiens’ fanbase and historical importance, he claims that “internal power struggles and inconsistent leadership” made it nearly impossible to execute a clear development strategy.
He specifically names incidents where young players were “mishandled emotionally and professionally,” including what he describes as “destructive overcorrections and pressure from above” during key stretches of the season.
Though Demidov didn’t name specific players, insiders speculate the comments reference recent top draft picks who have struggled to meet expectations or have seen limited NHL ice time in favor of veterans.
Martin St. Louis Responds Firmly
Martin St. Louis, hired in 2022 to bring a new vision and stability to the storied franchise, appeared both hurt and defiant in his response.
“I know the man. I respected him. But I completely disagree with what he’s claiming,” St. Louis said. “If there’s one thing we’re building in Montreal, it’s a culture of accountability and openness—maybe that’s uncomfortable for some, but it’s not toxic.”
St. Louis emphasized that the current Canadiens management, led by GM Kent Hughes and executive Jeff Gorton, has made “development and honesty” pillars of the team’s long-term plan, especially after a series of rebuilding years.
“We are not where we want to be yet—but we are absolutely on the right path,” he added.
Reaction Around the League
Around the NHL, the report has sparked immediate debate, with some analysts calling it an “overdue reckoning” for a franchise under immense pressure, while others question Demidov’s motivations and timing.
TSN analyst Darren Dreger weighed in, saying:
“There are always internal tensions in rebuilding teams. The Canadiens have taken big swings with young talent, and yes, some picks haven’t developed as hoped. But painting it as dysfunction across the board? That feels like a reach.”
Former Canadiens players have also started to react. One veteran who played under Demidov said anonymously, “He didn’t always understand the room. There was respect, but there was distance.”
What Comes Next
While the Canadiens have not officially released a detailed response beyond St. Louis’ comments, sources say internal discussions are already underway to address any potential fallout from the report and reassure both fans and players of the franchise’s direction.
Meanwhile, Ivan Demidov has reportedly stood by his claims, stating in a follow-up interview that he released the report out of “loyalty to the sport and concern for the young players who deserve better.”
As the Canadiens continue their season, all eyes will now be on how the locker room responds—and whether this controversy strengthens or weakens the team’s already fragile rebuild.
