Ivan Demidov's Arrival Sparks Frenzy Among Montreal Canadiens Fans
Ivan Demidov, the Montreal Canadiens' highly anticipated Russian prospect, received a hero's welcome upon landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport on Thursday evening. Hundreds of passionate fans gathered to greet the 19-year-old forward, chanting his name and waving Canadiens flags as excitement for his NHL debut reached fever pitch.
Demidov, who recently signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Canadiens after terminating his KHL deal with SKA St. Petersburg, expressed gratitude for the warm reception. "I’m thrilled to be here and can’t wait to get started," he said while navigating through the crowd of enthusiastic supporters. The young winger is expected to make his NHL debut on Monday, April 14, against the Chicago Blackhawks at the Bell Centre.
A Rising Star with Record-Breaking Credentials
Demidov’s arrival marks a significant moment for the Canadiens organization. Drafted fifth overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, he has already made waves in the hockey world. During his 2024-25 season with SKA, Demidov set a new KHL record for points by a player under 20, tallying an impressive 49 points (19 goals and 30 assists) in 65 games. This achievement surpassed the previous record held by NHL star Kirill Kaprizov.
The Canadiens are banking on Demidov’s skill set to bolster their playoff hopes. With Montreal currently enjoying a resurgence amid a rebuild, his addition comes at a pivotal time. The team is on the brink of clinching a playoff spot after three years of postseason absence, and fans are optimistic that Demidov could be a catalyst for success.
Managing Expectations Amid Sky-High Hype
While fans are abuzz with excitement, Canadiens veterans are urging caution. Alternate captain Brendan Gallagher emphasized that Demidov doesn’t need to carry the weight of immediate expectations. "He just has to be himself," Gallagher said. Similarly, teammate Patrik Laine offered a more tempered perspective, noting that transitioning from European hockey to the NHL is no small feat. "The NHL is the best league in the world," Laine remarked. "It’s not an easy transition, especially right before playoffs."
Demidov himself seems grounded about the challenges ahead. "My goal is to adapt quickly to this new style of hockey and show what I’m capable of," he stated during his first media appearance in Canada.
A City United in Anticipation
The buzz surrounding Demidov extends beyond the rink. Montreal businesses are already capitalizing on "Demidov Mania," with merchandise flying off shelves even before his first game. Meanwhile, social media platforms have been flooded with fan tributes and speculation about his potential impact.
For Canadiens supporters, Demidov represents more than just another prospect; he symbolizes hope for a brighter future as the team looks to rebuild its legacy. His arrival has injected new energy into a city that lives and breathes hockey.
As Monday approaches, all eyes will be on Demidov as he takes his first strides in an NHL game—a moment that promises to be unforgettable for both him and Canadiens fans alike.