The Montreal Canadiens' selection of Ivan Demidov with the fifth overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft continues to generate excitement, with many analysts suggesting he has the potential to outperform players selected ahead of him. While it's still early in their respective careers, some argue that Demidov possesses a unique blend of skill and determination that sets him apart.
Demidov's selection followed an outstanding season in the MHL, Russia's top junior league, where he recorded impressive statistics. His performance earned him the league's Most Valuable Player award for the second consecutive season. International experience at the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup further solidified his reputation as a top prospect. NHL Central Scouting lauded Demidov as a "two-way competitor with excellent offensive instincts and a winning attitude," highlighting his skating, puck-handling, and shooting abilities.
General Manager Kent Hughes has emphasized the organization's excitement about Demidov's potential, while also managing expectations for the young player. Demidov's arrival in Montreal was met with considerable fanfare, demonstrating the high hopes Habs fans have for him. Hughes noted the importance of ensuring Demidov understands the team's expectations and avoids being distracted by external pressures.
The Canadiens' management team, led by Hughes and Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations Jeff Gorton, have been praised for their strategic approach to the NHL Draft in recent years. Their focus on building a strong foundation for long-term success has resulted in the acquisition of promising talents such as Juraj Slafkovsky, Owen Beck, Lane Hutson, David Reinbacher, Jacob Fowler and Michael Hage.
While it is almost impossible for every draft pick to become a star, Hughes and Gorton have shown they can handle high-stakes picks in the NHL Draft. The selection of Demidov was no accident. The Canadiens had been scouting Demidov for a while and were happy to get him with the fifth overall pick.
The Canadiens also drafted Michael Hage with the 21st overall pick. The team traded their 26th, 57th, and 198th overall picks to the Los Angeles Kings to move up and select Hage. Hage was named Big Ten rookie of the year. Hughes said that Hage looked physically stronger and more mature at development camp.
While high draft picks often carry significant expectations, the development path is rarely linear. David Reinbacher, selected fifth overall in 2023, faced challenges during his first full season in North America, including a knee injury. However, his dedication to learning and his performance in the AHL playoffs have kept the Canadiens optimistic about his future.
As Demidov begins his NHL journey, the Canadiens will undoubtedly provide him with the support and guidance necessary to reach his full potential. His skill set and determination, combined with the organization's commitment to player development, create a promising outlook for the young Russian forward. The Canadiens' faithful are eager to see if their fifth-overall pick can indeed surpass those who were selected before him, marking a significant step forward in the team's ongoing rebuild.
