Ivan Demidov has quickly become a name to watch in the NHL, especially following his highly-anticipated matchup against Minnesota’s Kirill Kaprizov on Tuesday night. Both players, highly talented Russian wingers, have showcased their incredible skills, but it was Demidov who emerged as the bright star of the game, contributing two assists as the Montreal Canadiens secured a win.
Demidov’s impact was evident throughout the match, as he consistently set up scoring opportunities, potentially leaving a few more assists on the table due to missed chances from teammates. While Kaprizov also played well, the spotlight shone brightly on the Canadiens’ rookie, leading many to speculate that Demidov’s potential could even eclipse that of his predecessor, who is already considered a superstar after making his NHL debut at 23.
Insights by Byron Bader from Hockey Prospecting further emphasize this notion, revealing that Demidov’s developmental path is about two years ahead of Kaprizov’s at a similar age. Bader suggested a promising future for Demidov, noting, “What is Demidov going to look like at age 25 in the league… could be something really incredible.”
At only 20 years old, Demidov has tallied an impressive 43 points—including 11 goals and 32 assists—in his first full NHL season, all while averaging just 15:17 of ice time. He is currently in the second year of a three-year, $2,822,499 entry-level contract with the Canadiens, set to become a restricted free agent after the 2026-27 season.
The Canadiens recognized Demidov’s immense talent when they selected him fifth overall in the 2024 draft, and the Montreal fanbase’s excitement was palpable when they turned out to witness his debut.
While it’s still early to assert that Demidov will surpass Kaprizov, his growing confidence and skill are undeniably promising. His playmaking abilities rank among the league’s elite, and as he learns to balance his unselfishness with shooting opportunities, he could become a true force on the ice.
With his exceptional talent and hockey IQ, Demidov’s potential remains limitless. If he continues on his current trajectory, Montreal may be witnessing the rise of a future superstar in the league.