REPORT: Bruins Defenseman Slams Blackhawks for Draft Selection
Ivan Demidov’s rise as one of the brightest young talents in hockey is already validating those who believe he was a steal for the Canadiens at fifth overall. Nikita Zadorov’s comments reflect what many analysts and fans were thinking during the draft: Demidov’s elite skill set, including his skating, shooting, and hockey IQ, makes him a rare prospect. It’s fascinating to hear Zadorov suggest that Chicago, even after selecting Connor Bedard in 2023, should have taken Demidov second overall in 2024 instead of defenseman Artyom Levshunov.
Demidov’s KHL performance speaks volumes. Averaging nearly a point per game with SKA St. Petersburg as a teenager is no small feat, especially in a league known for its defensive structure. His 16 goals and 21 assists in 47 games show he’s already making an impact at a high level. The Canadiens must be thrilled to have landed a player with such a high ceiling, particularly one who fits so well with their culture and fanbase.
While the Sharks selecting Macklin Celebrini first overall was an easy choice given his generational potential, it’s interesting to wonder how different the draft might have looked if teams like Chicago, Anaheim, or Columbus had prioritized Demidov’s offensive upside over other needs. For Montreal, this is a huge win. Demidov has the tools to become a franchise cornerstone, and as Zadorov noted, he’s not just talented—he’s personable and media-savvy, which is a perfect fit for the passionate hockey market in Montreal.
Do you think Demidov will make the jump to the NHL next season, or would it benefit him to spend another year in the KHL to refine his game?