Latest news with #IvanDemidov
Time of India
12-06-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Ivan Demidov set for Calder Trophy run as Montreal Canadiens chase back-to-back wins
Demidov powers Montreal's Calder Trophy hopes (Image via: Getty Images) Lane Hutson made history this year by becoming the first Montreal Canadiens player since 1972 to win the Calder Trophy. But the spotlight is already shifting to the next big name: Ivan Demidov. After a promising start in the NHL, Demidov is entering the 2024–25 season with high expectations and many believe he could bring the Calder home again. Montreal eyes second straight Calder Trophy with Demidov in focus For the first time in over five decades, a Montreal Canadiens rookie claimed the NHL's top rookie honour. Lane Hutson's Calder Trophy win in 2024 not only marked a personal milestone but also ended a 52-year drought for the franchise. Now, the attention has quickly shifted to another young name making waves — Ivan Demidov. The 18-year-old Russian forward arrived in Montreal after a strong campaign in the KHL and didn't take long to draw attention. Despite limited NHL minutes toward the end of last season, Demidov showed flashes of skill that highlighted why he was one of the most talked-about international prospects. Canadiens' Ivan Demidov Targeting His NHL Debut | Saturday Headlines His early form has already sparked conversations among fans and analysts alike. Can the Canadiens do what no NHL team has done in more than 50 years — produce back-to-back Calder winners? The last to manage that feat was the Boston Bruins, with Bobby Orr in 1967 followed by Derek Sanderson in 1968. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Device Made My Power Bill Drop Overnight elecTrick - Save upto 80% on Power Bill Pre-Order Undo Since then, the NHL has grown in size and competition, making consecutive wins for teammates an increasingly rare achievement. However, Montreal's shift toward a youth-first approach could create the right conditions for it to happen again. The Canadiens have been steadily building a core around young talent. With names like Cole Caufield, Nick Suzuki, Kaiden Guhle, and now Hutson already in place, Demidov steps into a system that not only supports but accelerates player development. He's expected to see regular minutes and play a more involved role from the outset. The 2025 Calder Trophy race is expected to be competitive, with several top rookies across the league set to make their mark. But Demidov holds a few key advantages—brief but valuable NHL experience, a strong support system, and a style of play that fits modern league demands. Also Read: Justin Carbonneau faces crucial decision ahead of NHL Draft, balancing NCAA opportunities and Junior Hockey ties If his transition continues smoothly and he delivers consistently, Ivan Demidov may well become the second Canadiens rookie in as many years to be crowned the NHL's best.
Time of India
11-06-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
'It's not just about talent': Montreal Canadiens eye stronger defense and smart forwards for Ivan Demidov
Montreal Canadiens eye stronger defense and smart forwards for Ivan Demidov (Image via Getty) The Montreal Canadiens are busy behind the scenes as the offseason begins. While fans are excited about the arrival of top prospect Ivan Demidov, there's more happening. Hockey insider Elliotte Friedman dropped some key updates on his '32 Thoughts' podcast that hint at what the Canadiens might do next. But the full story goes deeper than just Demidov's debut. Elliotte Friedman shares Montreal Canadiens want new defense and help for Ivan Demidov On the June 7 episode of the '32 Thoughts' podcast, Elliotte Friedman said there is growing talk that the Montreal Canadiens are not just focused on defense. While many believe the team needs to fix its blue line, Friedman shared they are also looking for strong forwards who can play well with 18-year-old Ivan Demidov. Demidov, who is one of the most talked-about young players from Russia, was picked by Montreal in the 2024 NHL Draft. He is expected to join the team soon, and the Canadiens want to make sure he is set up to succeed. Friedman explained, 'There's been a lot of talk that the Canadiens want to add defense, but I've also heard they are looking at forwards who could fit next to Demidov.' This means Montreal could be working on more than just one area of the team. The update came while Friedman and Jeff Marek were talking about summer trades, free agents, and how young stars will change NHL rosters soon. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Concentrated Siberian Ginseng Extract 2oz Superior Ginseng Undo Also Read: Ivan Demidov Shortlisted For KHL Rookie Of The Year Following Strong Season With SKA St. Petersburg Ivan Demidov could shape how the Montrel Canadiens build their team this summer Ivan Demidov hasn't played a single NHL game yet, but his presence is already making waves. Montreal clearly sees him as a future star and wants to surround him with players who match his style. According to Friedman, the Montrel Canadiens are looking for skilled forwards who can play fast and smart just like Demidov. 'It's not just about talent,' he said on the podcast. 'It's about chemistry. They want someone who can grow with him.' This news came shortly after Demidov posted a training photo on Instagram from Russia, showing he is preparing hard for his first NHL season. With trades and signings expected in the coming weeks, fans now know the Canadiens are thinking long-term with Demidov at the center of their plans.
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Blackhawks Announce IceHogs Hiring Of Head Coach Jared Nightingale
Canadiens: Could There Be A Big Trade In The Works With Minnesota? It's well-documented that Kent Hughes would like to address the Montreal Canadiens' problems down the middle this Summer. With Ivan Demidov now in North America and Patrik Laine unable to produce at even-strength last season, the Habs need a real top-six center who will have the skills to get the best out of the two talented wingers. The Minnesota Wild could help.
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Canadiens: Could There Be A Big Trade In The Works With Minnesota?
Canadiens: Could There Be A Big Trade In The Works With Minnesota? It's well-documented that Kent Hughes would like to address the Montreal Canadiens' problems down the middle this Summer. With Ivan Demidov now in North America and Patrik Laine unable to produce at even-strength last season, the Habs need a real top-six center who will have the skills to get the best out of the two talented wingers. The Minnesota Wild could help.
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Canadiens: Is Mailloux On The Market?
Canadiens: Could There Be A Big Trade In The Works With Minnesota? It's well-documented that Kent Hughes would like to address the Montreal Canadiens' problems down the middle this Summer. With Ivan Demidov now in North America and Patrik Laine unable to produce at even-strength last season, the Habs need a real top-six center who will have the skills to get the best out of the two talented wingers. The Minnesota Wild could help.
