After signing his entry-level contract (ELC) with the Montreal Canadiens, 2024 fifth-overall pick Ivan Demidov is set to make his NHL debut in the final stretch of the regular season. As he prepares to make the jump to the big league, Demidov issued an honest statement about who he looks up to — raising eyebrows as he left out Alex Ovechkin, who recently set the NHL’s all-time goals record.
Demidov could be the X-Factor for the Habs’ hopes in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, if the organization in Montreal clinches its spot in the postseason. While the Canadiens continue their red-hot streak in a critical stage of the season, Demidov’s arrival could help elevate their play to the next level.
The 19-year-old Russian RW/C is coming off a sensational year with SKA St. Petersburg in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Demidov recently set the record for most points in a season for under-20 years old in the league, finishing his campaign with 19 goals and 30 assists (49 points) in 65 outings.
As he arrives in the City of Saints, Demidov made it clear he doesn’t plan to copy anyone’s game, though he does look to certain NHL stars to help refine his own. While many expected Ovechkin to be among his role models, the teenager pointed instead to two other Russian talents.
Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals poses with the puck used during his 895th career goal in the second period against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on April 06, 2025 in Elmont, New York. Ovechkin’s goal passes Wayne Gretzky’s 894 goals to become the NHL all-time goal-scoring leader.
“I like watching [Kirill] Kaprizov and [Nikita] Kucherov, but I don’t try to compare myself to anyone directly,” Canadiens star Ivan Demidov admitted, during an interview with TSN‘sMarco D’Amico. “I have my own style, but I try to take the best from different players.”
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Eager to get to work
Fresh off his flight to Montreal, Demidov is excited to hit the ice and get to know his new teammates, while wearing the Habs’ sweater. While his debut date hasn’t been announced, he hopes it comes soon enough.
“Most likely, I’ll have time to play in the regular season for Montreal,” Demidov told RG. “My goal for the rest of the season is to adapt to this new style of hockey as quickly as possible and show what I’m capable of.”
Nikita Kucherov #86 of the Tampa Bay Lightning waits for a faceoff against the Toronto Maple Leafs during the third period in an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on January 20, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Not a doubt
While his skillset and ability to produce in bunches bears no question, there is some scrutiny and doubts cast over Demidov’s size and whether he’s physically ready to compete with his NHL peers and opponents. However, those doubts are nowhere to be found in Demidov’s mind.
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“I think I’ll be fine,” Demidov stated. He’d go on to voice a strong compliment for Calder trophy favorite, rookie defenseman Lane Hutson, whose size has also been scrutinized. “I followed Lane [Hutson] a lot — I really like how he plays. He’s very skilled and technically strong. A great player.”
