The journey to NHL stardom isn’t just about raw talent—it takes resilience, a strong mindset, and readiness for the pressures of the game. For Ivan Demidov, the Montreal Canadiens’ prized prospect, these traits define him just as much as his skill on the ice.
His KHL teammates at SKA shared insights with RG into his character, work ethic, and potential, painting a vivid picture of a player on the cusp of greatness.
A Personality Built for Success
For Demidov, talent is only part of the equation. His personality—calm, humble, and determined—sets him apart. Teammates like Evgeny Kuznetsov and Arseni Gritsyuk are impressed by his maturity and work ethic, traits that go beyond what’s expected of an 18-year-old in a high-pressure environment.
“He’s learning a lot; he’s becoming a man,” Kuznetsov shared. “I see great potential in him. He comes every day with a smile and enjoy the whole process. That’s how you keep the fire alive.”
This daily joy and dedication create a foundation that many young players struggle to establish. Kuznetsov’s observations highlight how Demidov’s mindset keeps him on the right track, something his teammates have repeatedly praised.
Gritsyuk, another key voice in the SKA locker room, pointed out how rare this combination of confidence and humility is.
“He dominates defensemen in practice and feels very confident. But he’s staying humble, and that’s crucial at this stage. Confidence is his strength, but he knows how to keep it in check.”
For Gritsyuk, Demidov’s humility isn’t just a personal trait; it’s a tool that allows him to channel his talent effectively, even in a competitive environment. It also shows his ability to learn from others while maintaining his individuality—a balance that makes him a standout among his peers.
Sergei Andronov adds another layer to the discussion, emphasizing how Demidov’s personality complements his skills.
“Truth is, we haven’t had players like him in our league for a long time. He knows how to beat you, and his one-on-one play is exceptional. But what’s really special is his willingness to work and learn.”
Andronov’s words underline how rare it is to find someone who combines raw talent with a genuine eagerness to grow. For Demidov, his openness to learning is as much a weapon as his shot or skating ability.
Resilience Through Adversity
At just 19, Demidov has already faced challenges that test his mental strength. His journey hasn’t been without its ups and downs, but his ability to navigate adversity has stood out to those around him.
Whether it’s adjusting to fluctuating ice time or handling the intense scrutiny of a top prospect, Demidov has shown an impressive ability to stay grounded.
This stability gives Demidov an edge that many young players lack. It allows him to focus on his development instead of getting caught up in external factors. For someone so young, this mindset is a significant advantage and a testament to his mental maturity.
Grigorenko has seen players crumble under similar circumstances but believes Demidov’s response to setbacks is unique.
“You must always believe in yourself and remember your goal,” Andronov added. “The path to the top isn’t easy, but Demidov takes every shift as a fresh start, no matter what happened before.”
This ability to reset and move forward is invaluable for a player navigating the highs and lows of professional hockey. Andronov’s perspective highlights Demidov’s readiness to handle challenges head-on, a trait that will serve him well as he transitions to the NHL.
Even when considering the possibility of starting in the AHL, Andronov sees it as another opportunity for Demidov to prove himself.
“He’s very young and has time. If that happens, he’ll take it as a lesson and continue working.”
This kind of resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from setbacks—it’s about turning every challenge into a stepping stone. For Demidov, every obstacle is a chance to grow stronger, both on and off the ice.
Ready for the Montreal Spotlight
Playing for the Montreal Canadiens is both an honor and a challenge. The city’s passionate fanbase and rich hockey history can intimidate even the most seasoned players. For Demidov, however, his teammates believe he’s more than prepared for the spotlight.
Former NHLer Tony DeAngelo is confident in Demidov’s ability to thrive in Montreal, noting that he has both the skills and the mental fortitude to succeed.
“The fans are going to love him. They already do,” DeAngelo said. “Pressure is a privilege. It’s part of the business, and he has the mental strength to handle it. He just needs to go there and be himself—confident and ready to fit in.”
For DeAngelo, being authentic is key to winning over both teammates and fans. His advice reflects the kind of approach that has worked for other young players transitioning to the NHL.
Grigorenko, who has played in Quebec and understands the unique demands of the market, echoed these sentiments.
“If you try hard and play well, the fans will see it, and they’ll love you for it. He has the mental health and work ethic to succeed there.”
This endorsement from someone familiar with the Montreal market carries weight, especially for a player like Demidov who is stepping into such a storied franchise. Grigorenko’s belief in Demidov’s adaptability adds to the sense that the young forward is ready for what lies ahead.
Even the possibility of challenges, like learning a new language or adjusting to the league’s pace, doesn’t seem daunting for Demidov.
“He needs to learn from experienced players and be ready for any chance,” Andronov said. “He has all the tools to adapt and make an impact.”
As Demidov prepares to make his mark in Montreal next season, his readiness isn’t just about what he can do on the ice—it’s about his entire approach to the game. With a combination of talent, resilience, and the right mindset, he’s poised to thrive under the bright lights of the Bell Centre.
Sergey has been in sports journalism since 2007 as a reporter, editor, and manager. He has covered the Olympic Games, soccer World Cups, the World Cup of Hockey in 2016, the European championships, the Stanley Cup Finals, IOC events, and many others. Sergey interviewed the sport's greatest athletes, coaches, and executives. Since 2016, he has been an Independent Senior Editor of NHL.com/ru.
