Evgeny Kuznetsov (#92) and Ivan Demidov (#91) (Photo by HC SKA)
Montreal Canadiens top prospect Ivan Demidov has been continuing to impress in the KHL so far this season as a rookie. The 19-year-old forward leads St. Petersburg SKA in scoring, tallying 49 points (19 goals, 30 assists) in 60 games. His ability to generate offense at such a high level in one of the world’s toughest leagues has solidified his status as one of the most promising young players outside the NHL.
From the start of the regular season, Demidov found himself playing alongside former Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes forward Evgeny Kuznetsov, a seasoned NHL veteran with years of experience at the highest level. Their chemistry has been noticeable, and Kuznetsov has taken a particular interest in his young teammate’s development.
Kuznetsov spoke highly of Demidov’s talent and potential, offering rare praise for a player still in the early stages of his professional career.
“I believe every hockey player is talented in their own way. Unfortunately, people will always compare who is better and who is worse. But every player has their own strengths,” said Kuznetsov in an exclusive interview with RG. “Vanya is an extraordinary player who can turn nothing into something special in an instant. He is one of the most talented players I’ve ever seen in terms of skill and playmaking. I hope he continues to develop.
In practice, he tries not to stand out too much so as not to make his teammates look bad.”
Kuznetsov, who has played alongside some of the best forwards in the NHL, sees similarities between Demidov and other elite playmakers. His ability to anticipate plays and create scoring chances for teammates is what separates him from most players his age.
Despite the natural inclination for young players to seek advice from veterans, Kuznetsov insists that he doesn’t act as a mentor to Demidov in the traditional sense.
“We don’t talk much about hockey; we mostly discuss everyday life here and in America. We chat, joke around. Maybe I don’t even realize when a question is really important to him, but I always answer everything. I never try to teach him anything—he already knows everything himself,” continued Kuznetsov. “Vanya is a grown man. The only thing we discuss on the ice is where to position ourselves and what to do in different situations.”
Kuznetsov’s approach to letting Demidov grow naturally as a player stems from his own experience. He recalled how, as a young player, he didn’t always appreciate being lectured by older teammates. Instead, he believes that allowing Demidov to play freely and develop his own instincts will serve him better in the long run.
Speaking about Demidov’s continued development, Kuznetsov emphasized the importance of mindset and confidence.
Demidov’s maturity and poise have been evident not just in games, but also in how he carries himself off the ice. He has embraced the challenges of professional hockey with a calm demeanor, showing a level of focus that is rare for a player of his age.
Kuznetsov also noted that their chemistry on the ice developed very quickly.
“I think it happened right away. From the very first game, it was there,” explained Kuznetsov.
Meanwhile, Kuznetsov's own season has been less fortunate. He is currently sidelined with an injury—his third of the regular season—adding frustration to what has been an inconsistent campaign for him personally.
As for Demidov, his immediate future remains in the KHL, but his time in Russia is winding down. His contract with SKA expires on June 1, 2025, and the Montreal Canadiens are expected to make signing him a top priority. If all goes according to plan, he will arrive in North America for the 2025-26 season, where Montreal hopes he can be a game-changer for their rebuilding roster.
For now, Demidov continues to shine in the KHL, proving with each passing game why he is considered one of the most exciting young talents in hockey.
Daria Tuboltseva
