Ivan Demidov (Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images)
In a surprising turn of events, RG can exclusively confirm that Ivan Demidov has terminated his contract with SKA and could join the Montreal Canadiens before the end of the regular season 2024-25.
This marks a sharp reversal from earlier indications that the 19-year-old winger would remain in Russia until June 1. Behind-the-scenes negotiations led by Demidov’s camp, including the successful early termination of his KHL obligations, cleared the path for an earlier-than-expected transition to North America — and a chance to get his first taste of NHL hockey.
The 19-year-old Russian winger, widely considered one of the most skilled forwards outside the NHL, has spent the past season sharpening his game in the KHL — a league known for its grind, physicality, and tight-checking style. But even in a system that doesn’t always spotlight offense, Demidov stood out.
Demidov’s path to the NHL was shaped by his time with SKA, where he developed his game under the mentorship of experienced coaches and teammates. Despite the shift to Montreal, Demidov remains thankful for the time spent honing his skills in the KHL. He credits much of his readiness to the support he received from his SKA staff, particularly Roman Rotenberg, who played a key role in his development.
“I was well-prepared in SKA,” said Demidov of his time in the KHL. “They have great facilities and strong teammates. I’m really grateful to Roman Rotenberg — he spent a lot of time working with me, stayed after practices, and helped me a lot.”
Now, with his KHL campaign in the rearview and his attention shifting to North America, Demidov is looking ahead to a new challenge — and embracing the unknowns that come with it.
“Most likely, I’ll have time to play in the regular season for Montreal,” Demidov said exclusively to RG. “My goal for the rest of the season is to adapt to this new style of hockey as quickly as possible and show what I’m capable of.”
That goal — quick adaptation — is something Demidov has already been preparing for. He’s been playing against older, stronger opponents since he was a teenager, learning how to create space in tight areas and make reads under pressure. This season, those lessons translated into more responsibility, more ice time, and more consistency.
“I’ve started to understand the pro game better,” he said. “I read the play better, both in the offensive and defensive zones. I’ve adapted to adult-level hockey.”
Though his stat line doesn’t fully capture his impact — a common reality for young players in the KHL — his skill, vision, and poise with the puck turned heads. Scouts and fans alike noted the way he processes the game, and how, even without the puck, he’s often one step ahead of the play.
Made For Montreal
And perhaps most encouraging for Canadiens supporters is that he doesn’t seem daunted by what’s coming next. Demidov has been watching from afar, tracking highlights, recaps, and the playoff push taking shape in Montreal.
“I haven’t watched the latest Canadiens games, but I’ve been keeping up with all the highlights and recaps.”
“Of course, I was,” he added when asked if he follows the current roster. “I’m happy they’re in a playoff spot. I followed Lane [Hutson] a lot — I really like how he plays. He’s very skilled and technically strong. A great player.”
The mutual admiration between prospects like Hutson and Demidov is part of what makes this next phase so exciting. The Canadiens aren’t just adding talent — they’re building a core that’s young, fast, and hungry. For Demidov, joining that group isn’t about easing in. It’s about contributing now.
His physical readiness? Not in question.
“I think I’ll be fine,” said the youngster.
He’s also taking the off-ice transition seriously. Moving across the world is a massive step at any age — let alone at 18 — but Demidov is making the jump with support. He’ll be joined by his girlfriend, Katya, as he begins this next chapter.
“All the paperwork is done, and I’m planning to go with my girlfriend, Katya,” said Demidov on Tuesday morning.
Language, culture, and lifestyle will all be new, but Demidov is approaching the transition with the same work ethic he applies to hockey. He’s already been working on his English, and even throwing in a few phrases of French — a nod to the culture awaiting him in Montreal.
“I’ve been working hard on it. I understand everything, but speaking takes practice,” said Demidov. “I think once I’m there, it’ll get easier. I can say a few phrases in French too — I’m learning!”
Learning to be a Pro
His adaptability off the ice mirrors his play on it. While comparisons are inevitable — especially for a high-profile Russian forward — Demidov isn’t trying to be the next anyone. He studies the game, admires players like Kirill Kaprizov and Nikita Kucherov, but insists on staying true to his own identity.
“I like watching Kaprizov and Kucherov, but I don’t try to compare myself to anyone directly,” said Demidov. “I have my own style, but I try to take the best from different players.”
That mindset will serve him well in a market as passionate as Montreal’s. But Demidov says he’s already become more mentally resilient — and he doesn’t let outside noise shape his focus.
There’s a quiet confidence in the way he speaks. He’s not predicting goals or promising heroics. He just wants to get on the ice, play his game, and continue growing.
After logging heavy minutes and playing meaningful games in Russia this season, he believes the experience has given him a strong base for what lies ahead.
“I think I’m lucky to have played a lot of games this year. I was trusted with a big role, and that really helped me prepare,” said Demidov. “Now I know what to expect.”
Still, the NHL is a different beast. The smaller ice surface, the relentless pace, the grind of travel — it’s a lot for any player to take in, especially one doing it in a foreign country for the first time. But Demidov seems ready to embrace it all.
“I’m preparing myself for both — a different kind of hockey and life in a new country,” said Demidov.
And while the journey is just beginning, Canadiens fans have every reason to be excited. Because for Ivan Demidov, this isn’t about hype or pressure. It’s about potential — and the chance to finally unlock it on hockey’s biggest stage.
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Marco D'Amico
